Prospective Randomized Clinical Trial Comparing 3-Point Prefabricated Orthosis and Elastic Tape Versus Cast Immobilization for the Nonsurgical Management of Mallet Finger.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this randomized trial was to compare the outcomes of using a 3-point prefabricated orthosis with elastic tape versus cast immobilization for the management of nonsurgical mallet finger.

METHODS

This study was conducted in a single center. Individuals with a mallet injury requiring nonsurgical management were randomized to 6 weeks of full-time immobilization with either a 3-point prefabricated orthosis and elastic tape or a cast for distal interphalangeal joint extension. Outcomes were assessed at 12 weeks after the initiation of full-time immobilization and 6 months after injury.

RESULTS

A total of 70 individuals agreed to participate in the study between April 2017 and April 2021. No statistically or clinically significant differences were found between the groups regarding distal interphalangeal joint extension lag, distal interphalangeal joint flexion deficits, function according to the brief Michigan Hand Outcome Questionnaire, and pain on the Numeric Pain Rating Scale. The overall findings for both treatment groups included means of <15° of extensor lag and minimal pain (mean, <1.2 of 10) at the 6-month outcome assessment.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of a 3-point prefabricated orthosis with elastic tape and cast are both appropriate immobilization options for the management of nonsurgical mallet finger.

TYPE OF STUDY/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic II.