# Flexor tendon avulsion and PIP joint fracture-dislocation in a 17-year-old football player: A case report

## TL;DR

A 17-year-old football player suffered a rare hand injury involving tendon and joint damage, which was successfully treated with surgery and rehabilitation.

## Contribution

This case report highlights a rare injury pattern in athletes and emphasizes the importance of early surgical intervention and rehabilitation.

## Key findings

- The injury involved FDS avulsion and PIP joint fracture-dislocation with intact FDP.
- Successful recovery was achieved through surgery and an aggressive rehabilitation protocol.
- The literature shows limited documentation of similar cases, stressing the need for prompt recognition and treatment.

## Abstract

We present a rare case of flexor digitorum superficialis (FDS) avulsion and dorsal fracture-dislocation of the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint with an intact flexor digitorum profundus (FDP) in a 17-year-old high school football player. This unusual injury pattern, sustained during a sports collision, required prompt surgical intervention to restore tendon continuity and joint congruity. Early rehabilitation and an aggressive return-to-sport protocol yielded a successful outcome, with full functional recovery. A literature review reveals limited documentation of similar cases, underscoring the clinical importance of early recognition and operative management in athletes.