Differential Diagnosis for Injury with Forced Flexion of the Finger
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Mallet finger: This is the most common injury resulting from forced flexion of the finger, typically occurring when an object (like a ball) strikes the tip of the finger, causing the extensor tendon to rupture or pull off a piece of bone.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Volar plate injury: Forced flexion can also cause injury to the volar plate, a ligament that connects the proximal phalanx to the middle phalanx, leading to pain and instability in the finger.
- Flexor tendon injury: Although less common than extensor tendon injuries in this mechanism, forced flexion can still cause strain or rupture of the flexor tendons, especially if the finger is forcefully flexed against resistance.
- Do Not Miss diagnoses
- Open fracture or dislocation: Any injury with significant force, such as forced flexion, has the potential to result in an open fracture or dislocation, which would require immediate medical attention to prevent infection and promote proper healing.
- Neurovascular injury: Damage to the nerves or blood vessels in the finger can occur with severe flexion injuries, leading to numbness, tingling, or decreased circulation, which are critical to identify and treat promptly.
- Rare diagnoses
- Seymour fracture: A rare injury in the distal phalanx that occurs when the extensor tendon avulses (pulls off) a fragment of bone, often associated with a nail bed injury.
- Intra-articular fracture: Although less common, forced flexion can result in a fracture that extends into the joint, requiring precise alignment and possibly surgical intervention to prevent long-term arthritis or stiffness.