Avulsions of the flexor digitorum profundus

Abstract

Many physicians and trainers are not aware of the entity of avulsion of the profundus tendon insertion. This is unfortunate, since early diagnosis and prompt surgical treatment generally produce the best result. Late, untreated patients who are asymptomatic are best left alone. For late instability of the DIP joint, fusion should be considered. A one- to two-stage flexor tendon graft can be performed in carefully selected, untreated patients, but the potential risks may outweigh the possible advantages in some individuals.