A Randomized Controlled Trial of the Treatment of Mallet Fractures

A Randomized Controlled Trial of the Treatment of Mallet Fractures: Conservative Versus Operative Using One Meniscus Arrow®

Intra-articular fractures at the dorsal base of the distal phalanx of the hand are usually referred to as Mallet fractures. Treatment of Mallet fractures remains controversial. Although no differences in clinical results are reported between conservative treatment and operative treatment, operative treatment is suggested for fractures involving more than 30% of articular surface. There are many different operative techniques, all with specific disadvantages. The investigators hypothesis is that operative treatment of Mallet fractures with one Meniscus Arrow® has a better outcome than conservative treatment with a Mallet splint.

Inclusion Criteria:

• avulsion fracture involving more than 30% of articular surface

Exclusion Criteria:

• (sub)luxation of the distal phalanx
• patients with a Mallet fracture developed 3 weeks or more prior to presentation
• patients with a Mallet fracture with failure of conservative treatment