Fracture of an Interphalangeal Coalition: a Report of Two Cases

Abstract

Congenital coalition of the middle and distal phalanges in the fifth toe are common. They have been reported to occur in up to 50% of American and European populations and in up to 73% of people of Japanese descent. Congenital interphalangeal coalition of the other toes is less common. We report two cases of fracture through an interphalangeal coalition following blunt trauma. Diagnosis was delayed in these fractures. One fracture healed only after prolonged immobilization and the other developed a delayed union. Patients with this fracture should be advised of the prolonged convalescence since this may delay their return to preinjury activities.