Mallet Deformity of Distal Phalanx of Index Finger after Snake Bite

Abstract

Snakebites, though uncommon, are a potentially serious cause of disability or death. Snakebites present as puncture wounds or scratches. Local symptoms may include pain, edema, or ecchymosis that may progress to skin necrosis or compartment syndrome. This study explores the case of a 48-year-old male patient bitten by a snake on the distal dor-sum of his left index finger. At first examination, the injured finger was markedly swollen. The acute treatment under-taken at the local hospital was to remove the blood blister. One month later, the patient visited Soonchunhyang University Bucheon Hospital and presented with necrotic changes in the skin; an X-ray of the hand demonstrated mallet de-formity. His tendinous mallet finger was treated using a modification of the internal suture technique. Photographic im-ages were taken before and after the operation. After the operation, a complete treatment of the skin defect and mallet finger lesion was achieved. The patient tolerated the treatment well with minimal pain.