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What does Elson's test assess?

  1. Stability of the PIP joint

  2. Injury to the central slip

  3. Tendon integrity in the wrist

  4. Fracture of the third metacarpal

The correct answer is: Injury to the central slip

Elson's test is specifically designed to assess the integrity of the central slip, which is a crucial component in the function of the extensor mechanism over the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint. By placing the patient's finger in a particular position and applying a force to extend the finger, the test evaluates whether the central slip is intact or if an injury has occurred. An inability to achieve extension at the PIP joint when the test is performed suggests a rupture of the central slip, which is often associated with conditions like a boutonnière deformity. This makes the answer related to injury to the central slip the most appropriate choice, as it directly correlates with the purpose of Elson's test.