Overview
Mallet thumb is an uncommon injury involving a closed rupture of the extensor pollicis longus tendon at its distal insertion 12. It must be distinguished from dropped thumb 2.Diagnosis
Distinguish from dropped thumb 2.Management
Conservative treatment can result in near-normal function 1.
Operative treatment is advised in some cases and has yielded excellent results in a small series 2.
Recommendations vary regarding operative versus conservative management 2.Special Populations
No information provided.Key Recommendations
Conservative treatment may result in near-normal function for mallet thumb 1. (Evidence: Weak)
Operative treatment is advised for mallet thumb, with excellent results reported in a small series 2. (Evidence: Weak)
Differential diagnosis should include dropped thumb 2. (Evidence: Expert opinion)References
1 De Smet L, Van Ransbeeck H. Mallet thumb. Acta orthopaedica Belgica 2003. link
2 Din KM, Meggitt BF. Mallet thumb. The Journal of bone and joint surgery. British volume 1983. link