Surgery is often considered for patients with mallet fractures, especially if there is significant joint displacement or subluxation, but outcomes can be unsatisfactory and the best surgical approach is debatable.
The study aimed to analyze the angle of the fracture line (FLA) in relation to the long axis of the distal phalanx and how it might aid in choosing treatment strategies.
Researchers found a consistent method to measure the FLA and noted a strong correlation in measurements; however, no direct link was observed between the FLA and the percentage of joint surface involved, suggesting that FLA could be useful in treatment decisions.