Bouttoniere Deformity - Finger Deformity

Surgery may be necessary to reconstruct a tendon or joint.  If past treatments and surgery fail, the bones in the finger can be surgically fused together and kept from moving. 

Some boutonniere deformities can be treated with splinting.  Splinting can help certain new and old injuries.  Splinting is usually tried for at least six weeks.  All types of surgeries are followed by splinting and hand therapy.  There are many types of splints for boutonniere deformities.  A therapist can customize your splints and provide hand therapy.  
 
Therapy is especially important to ease symptoms and help you regain function.  Initially, your therapist will help you gently move your joints, as they may be stiff and sore after immobilization or surgery.  The passive movement will help reduce discomfort and swelling.  When your hand has healed, your doctor will advance your therapy orders to include strengthening, flexibility, and coordination exercises.  It will be important to work on your hand grip and finger pinching skills.  Your therapists may recommend assistive devices and precautions to use during your regular activities to help prevent future injuries.

Recovery from boutonniere deformity surgery can take three to four months.  It can take up to six months for a full recovery. Recovery is individualized and your doctor will let you know what to expect.

You should contact your doctor if you notice you are developing a boutonniere deformity.  In most cases, early treatment is associated with the best outcomes.  Following treatment, your  therapist can recommend ways to perform your regular activities to help you avoid future injuries.