Corpus: Distal phalanx
Definition
The term distal phalanx is used to describe the bones that form the distal phalanges of the fingers and toes, i.e., those that connect distally to the middle phalanges.
Anatomy
Fingers
The distal phalanx is shorter than the two preceding phalanges of the fingers. The proximal end of the bones facing the middle phalanx is larger and has a double concave articular cartilage with a sagittally aligned degree in the middle. Together with the cartilage surface of the middle phalanx, it forms the distal interphalangeal joint. Distally it ends in a horseshoe-shaped bone ridge that supports the nail bed.
Toes
The small, stunted-looking distal phalanges of the toes are even shorter than the middle phalanges. They have a flattened basic shape and are significantly shorter than the distal phalanges of the fingers.
