Neglected Stress Fracture of the Second Proximal Phalanx in a Teenage Triathlete

Abstract

We present a case of nondiagnosed comminuted stress fracture of the base of the proximal phalanx associated with flexor digitalis longus rupture in a teenage athlete. To our knowledge, there is no description in the literature of such a combination of injuries due to delayed diagnosis and incorrect treatment, including injections in the metatarsophalangeal joint of the second toe. The present article focuses on the importance of clinical suspicion of this rare lesion to achieve early diagnosis and avoid surgical treatment. Finally, the surgical technique used to treat this uncommon injury in the chronic phase, which yielded an excellent outcome in this teenage athlete, is described.