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Rupture of the extensor tendon of the finger of the hand: causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment
Last reviewed: 05.07.2025
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[ What causes a ruptured extensor tendon in the finger?
Rupture of the extensor tendon of the finger of the hand occurs at two levels: at the level of the proximal interphalangeal joint (type I) or at the level of the terminal phalanx (type II).
The pathology occurs with a direct blow to the back of the finger or indirectly - with a sharp load along the longitudinal axis of the finger with excessive tension of the tendon.
Symptoms of a ruptured extensor tendon of the finger
Type I. Pain occurs at the moment of injury, then moderate swelling of the finger and typical deformation - double contracture of Weinstein: flexion in the proximal and extension in the distal interphalangeal joint. Passive straightening of the finger is free, but when the passive force is eliminated, the contracture occurs again.
Type 2. Following the injury, the terminal phalanx assumes a flexion position, with no active extension. Passive extension is fully preserved.
Treatment of ruptured extensor tendon of the finger
Conservative treatment of rupture of the extensor tendon of the finger of the hand
Conservative treatment of a rupture of the extensor tendon of the finger is possible only in case of a fresh rupture of the extensor tendon of the finger of the hand of the second type. The finger is fixed with a plaster splint in the "writing position" - the nail phalanx is hyperextended, and the middle phalanx is bent. The immobilization period is 6 weeks.
Surgical treatment of rupture of the extensor tendon of the finger of the hand
Surgical treatment of rupture of the extensor tendon of the finger of the hand is indicated for all ruptures of the extensor tendon of the finger of the hand of the first type and for stale ruptures of the second type. Primary tendon suture is applied, and at later stages one of the types of plastic surgery is performed.
Then immobilization with a plaster splint is indicated for 4 weeks.
Rehabilitation treatment after the removal of the plaster cast consists of active and passive gymnastics of the injured finger, thermal procedures (paraffin, ozokerite), and hydrotherapy. Household exercises (occupational therapy) are very useful - washing small items in warm soapy water, playing musical instruments, etc.