How is proximal phalanx fracture treated?

Proximal phalanx fracture – undisplaced Your fracture can be treated with splinting, taping or casting (or a combination of all three of these). Generally a cast is only used for treating phalangeal fractures for children or individuals who will not be able to keep their fingers safely immobilised with a splint.

What is a fractured phalanx?

A phalanx is any bone of the fingers or toes. A phalanx fracture is a crack or complete break in one of these bones. A phalanx fracture can happen when your finger or toe is hit, pulled, jammed, crushed, or twisted. It is also possible for a tumor or cyst to weaken the bone, causing it to break easily when injured.

How long does a fractured finger tip take to heal?

Breaks in the bones of the finger usually heal well in about 3 to 4 weeks. The pain and swelling from a broken finger can last for weeks. But it should steadily improve, starting a few days after you break it.

Does a nondisplaced fracture need a cast?

Displaced fractures will likely require surgery because the bones are unstable while nondisplaced fractures normally only need to be immobilized in a cast for six weeks to properly heal.

What does a fractured middle phalanx look like?

Stiffening in the finger or joints. Swelling and pain extends beyond the injured area. Numbness. Bruising and swelling underneath the fingernail, as well as the fingertip.

Which is the most fractured part of the phalanx?

The distal phalanx is most the commonly fractured phalanx. 10 The long finger distal phalanx is the most common because its length makes it more vulnerable. 11 Distal phalanx fractures can be divided into tuft fractures, shaft fractures and base fractures. Typically, tuft fractures are caused by crush injuries to the fingertips.

How is a phalangeal fracture of the finger treated?

Phalangeal fractures of the finger are typically due to direct blows to the hand. Most phalangeal fractures are treated with a splint, but unstable fractures may require surgical treatment to prevent complications such as stiffness and malunion.

How long can a non displaced phalangeal fracture last?

A majority of non-displaced fractures of the distal phalanx can be splinted with the DIP joint in extension for 3-4 weeks. Most non-displaced proximal phalangeal fractures can be managed with a splint or even “buddy taping”.

Can a phalanx fracture cause a finger to diverge?

Rotation and angulation of a phalanx fracture can cause the finger to overlap or diverge. Angulation of the fracture apex volar or dorsal will result in a bone–tendon length discrepancy leading to an extension lag.