Boutonniere Deformity

Boutonniere Deformity Treatment in Dubai at Emirates Hospitals Group. Boutonniere deformity is a condition that affects the fingers, specifically the middle joint of the finger, also known as the proximal interphalangeal joint (PIP joint).

This condition is characterized by the inability to straighten the middle joint of the finger, while the end joint (distal interphalangeal joint or DIP joint) and the base joint (metacarpophalangeal joint or MCP joint) remain functional. At Emirates Hospitals Group, we are proud to have the best hand and wrist surgeons in Dubai, specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of this complex condition. Our expert team is dedicated to providing comprehensive care, combining advanced techniques with personalized treatment plans to restore hand function and improve quality of life.

• Symptoms & Causes
• Treatment

Symptoms of Boutonniere Deformity

Symptoms of Boutonniere deformity include difficulty in straightening the middle joint of the finger, pain, and swelling around the PIP joint. If left untreated, the condition can worsen over time, leading to permanent deformity and loss of hand function.

The symptoms of Boutonniere deformity typically include:

• Difficulty in straightening the middle joint of the finger
• Pain and tenderness around the proximal interphalangeal joint (PIP joint)
• Swelling around the PIP joint
• A visible deformity in which the middle joint of the finger is bent downward while the end joint (distal interphalangeal joint or DIP joint) and the base joint (metacarpophalangeal joint or MCP joint) remain functional
• Weakness in the affected finger
• Inability to grip or hold objects properly
• Stiffness in the finger joint

Causes of Boutonniere Deformity

Boutonniere deformity is caused by a rupture or tear of the central slip of the extensor tendon that attaches to the middle bone of the finger. This may result from a trauma to the hand or a chronic condition such as rheumatoid arthritis.

Boutonniere deformity can be caused by various factors, including:

Trauma: The most common cause of Boutonniere deformity is a traumatic injury to the finger, such as a forceful blow, cut or crush injury. This can result in a rupture or tear of the central slip of the extensor tendon that attaches to the middle bone of the finger, leading to the characteristic deformity.

Rheumatoid Arthritis: Chronic inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis can also cause Boutonniere deformity. In such cases, the inflammation and damage to the joint can weaken the extensor tendon and cause it to rupture.

Congenital Conditions: Rarely, Boutonniere deformity can be present at birth due to a congenital abnormality or a developmental disorder.

Overuse or Repetitive Stress: Overuse or repetitive stress on the fingers, such as in musicians, can cause inflammation and damage to the extensor tendon, leading to Boutonniere deformity.

Aging: As we age, the tendons and ligaments in our hands and fingers can become weaker, making them more susceptible to injury and damage.

Other Medical Conditions: Boutonniere deformity can also be caused by other medical conditions, such as infections, tumors, or neurological disorders.

Treatment for Boutonniere Deformity

Treatment options for Boutonniere deformity include splinting and hand therapy, which can help to straighten the affected finger and prevent further deformity. Surgery may be necessary in some cases to repair the damaged tendon or joint.

Some common treatments for Boutonniere deformity include:

Non-Surgical options: If the deformity is not severe and is caught early, non-surgical options may be recommended. This can include splinting the affected finger in a straight position for several weeks, followed by hand therapy to improve flexibility and range of motion.

Surgery: In more severe cases or cases that do not respond to non-surgical treatments, surgery may be required. The type of surgery will depend on the specific cause of the deformity, but may involve repairing the extensor tendon or joint through a surgical procedure.

Medications: In cases where rheumatoid arthritis is the underlying cause of the deformity, medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) may be prescribed to manage inflammation and pain.

Lifestyle Changes: Making lifestyle changes such as reducing repetitive hand movements or wearing protective gear can help prevent further injury to the finger.

Occupational Therapy: Occupational therapy may be recommended to help patients learn new ways of performing daily tasks with the affected finger.