Abstract

Objective: To compare the functional outcomes of the delta frame (DF) and extension block pinning (EBP) techniques in the surgical treatment of mallet finger injuries and to develop a new classification system for outcome assessment.
Methods: Twenty-eight patients who underwent surgery for mallet finger between 2022 and 2025 were retrospectively evaluated in this study. 10 patients underwent DF fixation, and 18 underwent EBP. Functional outcomes were assessed using the Mallet-modified fingertip injury score (M-FIOS), Michigan Hand Questionnaire (MHQ), and Crawford classification. Demographic data, surgical duration, quantity of fluoroscopies, and complications were documented.
Results: There were no differences in age, sex, affected side, and injury type between groups (p>0.05). The EBP group had a higher chronic case rate (38.9% vs. 0.0%; p=0.030). The DF group had a longer operation time (68.0±10.9 vs. 36.7±16.8 min; p

Key words: delta frame, extension block pinning, fingertip injury outcomes score, fios, functional outcome, hand surgery, mallet finger, michigan hand questionnaire