HSS Ultrasound of the Month Case #113

Clinical History 34 year old female with inability to flex the distal interphalangeal joint of the ring finger after recent injury.

What’s the Diagnosis – Case 73

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What’s the Diagnosis – Case 73

Diagnosis: Jersey Finger (Avulsion of the flexor digitorum profundus tendon) Avulsion of the flexor digitorum profundus (FDP) off its attachment on the base of the distal phalanx typically occurs in full-contact sports such as football.

It is also called “jersey finger”, as this injury commonly occurs when a player grabs the opponent’s jersey and the finger is injured as the jersey is yanked away.

The severity of injury depends on the degree of retraction of the avulsed tendon and whether there is a fracture involved (Leddy and Packer classification).

Xray is the first line imaging modality to assess for fractures.

Ultrasound is a quick and accurate exam to identify the avulsed tendon and localize the tendon stump.

Treatment is surgical, typically direct tendon repair unless the injury is chronic.

What’s the Diagnosis – Case 73

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