The middle finger joint (PIP joint) becomes flexed towards the palm, while the fingertip joint (DIP joint) hyperextends. This deformity is most commonly caused by damage to the central slip of the extensor tendon and worsens over time.
Visually Boutonniere deformity is the opposite of the Swan Neck Deformity.
Is this an emergency?
A boutonnière deformity is generally not a medical emergency, but early assessment is important to prevent permanent stiffness and deformity.
Please contact 1300HANDOC for advice and further instructions.
- Difficulty straightening the middle joint of the finger
- Middle joint held in a bent position
- Fingertip joint becoming increasingly straight or bent backwards
- Pain and swelling around the middle joint
- Finger stiffness
- Reduced grip and hand function
- Direct trauma or a forceful bend of the finger
- Sports injuries
- Dislocation of the middle finger joint
- Cuts or injuries affecting the extensor tendon
- Arthritis or other conditions affecting the finger joint
- History and mechanism of injury
- Clinical examination
- X-ray
- Further imaging may be required if tendon or soft-tissue injury is suspected
Treatment depends on the severity and cause and may include splinting, hand therapy and exercises. More severe or longstanding deformities may require surgical treatment.
Please contact 1300HANDOC to discuss the treatment recommendations based on the injury.
1300 426 362