Boutonniere Deformity

Autor: RAFAŁ CZEPUŁKOWSKI
Consultation JAKUB STEFANIAK
Date added 13.12.2024
Date of last revision 13.12.2024

Table of contents:

Boutonniere deformity is a condition commonly associated with damage to the central slip of the extensor tendon of the finger. What does this deformity involve, and what treatment options are available for joint issues in the fingers?

Table of contents:

Boutonniere Deformity – Symptoms

The central slip typically facilitates the extension of the finger at the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint. When this structure is damaged, the extensor force is transferred to the lateral bands, which shift to the palmar side of the finger. This causes the PIP joint to assume a flexed position, while the distal interphalangeal (DIP) joint becomes hyperextended.

Boutonniere Deformity – Treatment

The difficulty in extending the affected finger is usually apparent to patients. However, some may underestimate the condition and attempt to adapt to it. It is crucial to seek an orthopedic specialist's opinion as early as possible. In many cases, time is a critical factor that significantly affects the future functionality of the hand. Delaying treatment may result in the inability to fully restore the normal function of the injured finger.

Boutonniere Deformity – Treatment Methods

In cases of boutonniere deformity, acute damage to the central slip may occur. These situations particularly require prompt treatment, ideally within one or two weeks of the injury. Depending on the extent of the damage, conservative treatment may be an option. This involves immobilizing the PIP joint for four to six weeks. In surgical treatment, reinsertion of the damaged central slip is performed, often using an anchor to repair the tendon.

Boutonniere Deformity – Rehabilitation

Rehabilitation is essential in nearly all cases of boutonniere deformity treatment. It helps prevent stiffness in the affected finger, whether in the near or distant future. For older deformities of this type, rehabilitation under the supervision of a specialized physical therapist is crucial. In severe cases of hand dysfunction, complex reconstructive surgery may be necessary. This involves reconstructing the extensor mechanism of the finger. In such cases, returning to full physical activity may take four to six months.

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References:

Autor
RAFAŁ CZEPUŁKOWSKI
RAFAŁ CZEPUŁKOWSKI

Specjalista do spraw content marketingu, dziennikarz sportowy i medyczny. Redaktor naczelny magazynu „Poradnik Zdrowie i Sport”, członek Dziennikarskiego Klubu Promocji Zdrowia, współtwórca wielu artykułów medycznych z zakresu ortopedii i urazowości w sporcie.

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Konsultacja merytoryczna
JAKUB STEFANIAK
JAKUB STEFANIAK

Lekarz w klinice Rehasport, specjalizuje się w ortopedii i traumatologii narządu ruchu z ukierunkowaniem na leczenie schorzeń barku, łokcia oraz nadgarstka. Lekarz Kadry Polskiego Związku Tenisowego oraz certyfikowany szkoleniowiec Polskiej Agencji Antydopingowej.

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