0 - 8 weeks:
A Mallet splint is fitted holding the DIP in slight hyperextension for continual wear. If the patient has an acute deformity, the patient is splinting in this fashion for six weeks. If the deformity is chronic, (over a month old), then the patient is splinted continuously for eight week.
The patient is instructed never to let the DIP joint flex when removing the splint for cleaning.
6 - 8 weeks:
The splint is discontinued during the daytime, but is worn at night. The patient is started on active exercises only. The patient is checked the day following initial mobilization and if extensor lag is present, then the patient is resplinted for an additional two weeks. The patient is checked again at one week with the same decision protocol. The patient will continue to wear a night splint for an additional three to six weeks depending on surgeon's preference. Two weeks following mobilization, gentle passive range of motion exercises and blocked active range of motion exercises are instituted.
12 weeks:
If necessary, dynamic flexion splinting is instituted.
NOTE:
Skin problems are common with splinting, and the patient needs to be monitored for splint related skin problems. If necessary they should be converted to a paper clip or dorsal splint, and if this is not successful, they may require percutaneous pinning of the distal interphalangeal joint. Alternatively, the patient may alternate between a dorsal and palmar splint on a twice weekly basis.