Certified Hand Therapist (CHT) Practice Exam

Which finger fractures account for 50% of all finger fractures?

1. Proximal phalanx fractures

2. Distal phalanx fractures

3. Metacarpal fractures

4. Middle phalanx fractures

The correct answer is: Distal phalanx fractures

The identification of distal phalanx fractures as accounting for 50% of all finger fractures is grounded in clinical findings and biomechanical considerations. The distal phalanx is the terminal bone of the finger, and due to its exposure and location, it often suffers injuries from direct trauma such as crush injuries, falls, or being stubbed. Additionally, the distal phalanx's position makes it more vulnerable to injuries compared to other phalanges, leading to a higher incidence of fractures. This is particularly relevant in sports, activities involving manual labor, and during everyday accidents, which all increase the risk of such fractures. In contrast, other types of finger fractures, while common, do not reach the same prevalence as distal phalanx fractures. Proximal phalanx fractures and metacarpal fractures are indeed significant but do not occur as frequently as those involving the distal phalanx. Middle phalanx fractures, while they do happen, similarly do not represent a proportion comparable to that of the distal phalanx fractures.