Question 1

What is boutonniere deformity and how does it happen?

Accepted Answer

Boutonniere (French for 'buttonhole') deformity occurs when the central slip tendon that straightens your middle finger joint is damaged. This causes the joint to push through the tendon like a button through a buttonhole. The finger assumes a characteristic position: middle joint bent downward, fingertip bent backward. It can result from injury (jamming, cutting, or dislocating the finger) or develop gradually from arthritis.

Question 2

Can it heal without surgery?

Accepted Answer

Yes, if caught early (within 2-4 weeks of injury) and treated with strict splinting. You must wear a splint continuously for 6-8 weeks keeping the middle joint straight. Success depends on early treatment and excellent compliance. Chronic deformities (more than 3 months old) rarely respond to splinting alone and usually require surgery for significant improvement.

Question 3

How long does recovery take?

Accepted Answer

Timeline varies by treatment: Splinting alone: 3-4 months for healing and return to activities. Surgery: 6-12 months for maximum recovery. You'll be in a splint for 6-8 weeks after surgery, then require 3-6 months of hand therapy. Some permanent stiffness is common, especially in long-standing deformities.

Question 4

Will my finger be completely normal?

Accepted Answer

Results depend on severity and treatment timing. With early treatment of acute injuries, many people achieve near-normal function. Chronic deformities (especially with arthritis) rarely return to completely normal, but most people regain functional use. Some permanent mild deformity or stiffness is common but usually doesn't significantly impact daily activities.

Question 5

What happens if I don't treat it?

Accepted Answer

Untreated boutonniere deformity typically worsens over time. The middle joint becomes progressively more bent and stiff, and the fingertip becomes more hyperextended. Eventually, the deformity becomes fixed (unable to straighten even passively), and arthritis develops in the affected joints. Treatment becomes much more complex and results are less predictable for chronic, untreated deformities.

Medical Disclaimer

Boutonniere Deformity

📖What is Boutonniere Deformity?

🔬What Causes It?

⚠️Risk Factors

You may be at higher risk if:

🛡️Prevention