ABSTRACT
The major structure injured is the volar plate, which may be avulsed with a fragment of bone visible on a lateral X-ray. Treatment is mobilization with neighbour strapping for 3 to 6 weeks. Neighbour strapping prevents hyperextension. Left untreated, the PIPJ can hyperextend and a swan-neck deformity develops. Rarely the volar plate or flexor tendons become interposed in the joint and surgical removal is required.
