Mallet finger deformities treated by buried purse-string suture

Abstract

【Abstract】Objective: To investigate the efficacy of buried purse-string suture in the treatment of mallet finger deformities. Methods: From February 2009 to February 2010, 12 patients with closed non-fracture mallet fingers were treated by buried purse-string suture. The rupture tendons were sutured by purse-string suture with an atraumatic needle, and the knots were buried under subcutaneous tissue. Ex- ternal fixator was used at the extension position of the finger every night within three weeks after operation. Results: All patients were followed up for 6-12 months,mean 7 months. According to the Patel’s evaluation criteria, 2 cases (17%) obtained excellent results, 7 good (58%), 2 fair (17%) and 1 poor (8%). The overall rate of the cases with excellent and good outcomes was 75%. Conclusion: Buried purse-string suture is an easy and effective way to treat mallet finger deformities, with no serious postoperative complications or no need for reoperation. Key words: Tendon injuries; Finger injuries; Suture techniques; External fixator