Concurrent Ring Finger Middle Phalanx Fracture and Jersey Finger in a Rugby Player

Abstract

Avulsions of the flexor digitorum profundus (FDP) tendon and phalanx fractures are both common injuries for rugby players, but these concurrent injuries in the same finger have not been previously described. This case describes a 20-year-old female rugby player who sustained a right ring finger comminuted, mildly displaced middle phalanx fracture. The patient was evaluated by a hand surgeon 3 weeks after the injury, and non-operative management with a splint was elected. One week later, upon further examination, the patient demonstrated persistent inability to flex the distal interphalangeal joint (DIPJ) of the ring finger. Ultrasound was inconclusive but an MRI demonstrated avulsion of the FDP tendon from the distal phalanx, consistent with a jersey finger injury. The patient subsequently underwent open repair of the FDP tendon. This case illustrates the importance of careful physical exam and index of suspicion for coexisting injuries.