Jersey Finger

Jersey Finger

An avulsion (often with fragment of bone) and retraction of the flexor digitorum profundus (FDP) insertion in the distal phalangeal base. 75% of cases occur in the ring finger—which is weaker than the middle finger
Aetiology Grabbing an opponent’s jersey during a tackle—rugby, American football—or a fight—ice hockey players who have removed their gloves
Evaluation Test isolated DIP joint flexion in all digits; the inability to flex the DIP joint is pathognomic of a jersey finger
Classification Leddy-Packer system, Types I-IV, based on level of tendon retraction and presence and severity of fracture
Management DIP arthrodesis (preferred) or tendon grafting (less preferred due to potential complications)
Complications Unstable DIP joint, stiffness, loss of ROM, loss of fixation, weak pinch and grip strength, infection, eurovascular injury