From the Guidelines
Finger dislocations commonly injure the collateral ligaments, specifically the radial and ulnar collateral ligaments, as well as the volar plate, which are crucial for providing lateral stability and preventing hyperextension to the finger joints. When a finger dislocation occurs, the ligaments that are most frequently injured include:
- Radial collateral ligament
- Ular collateral ligament
- Volar plate These injuries can be accurately diagnosed using MRI, which is ideal for evaluating tendon injuries, capsule, and collateral ligament injuries of the proximal interphalangeal and metacarpophalangeal joints 1. In particular, MRI has been shown to be sensitive and specific for detecting injuries to the ulnar collateral ligament and radial collateral ligament, with a sensitivity of 67% and a specificity of 91% for collateral ligament injuries of the lesser metacarpophalangeal joints 1. Treatment of these injuries typically involves reduction of the dislocation followed by appropriate splinting for 3-6 weeks, depending on the severity and specific ligaments involved, with the goal of minimizing morbidity, mortality, and improving quality of life by preventing long-term joint instability and stiffness.
From the Research
Finger Dislocation Injuries
The ligaments injured in a finger dislocation can vary depending on the type and location of the dislocation.
- Dorsal proximal interphalangeal joint dislocations may involve injury to the volar plate and collateral ligaments 2.
- Volar proximal interphalangeal joint dislocations may involve injury to the dorsal capsule and collateral ligaments 2.
- Metacarpophalangeal joint dislocations may involve injury to the collateral ligaments, particularly the radial and ulnar collateral ligaments 3, 4.
- Distal interphalangeal joint dislocations may involve injury to the collateral ligaments and volar plate 2, 5, 6.
Specific Ligament Injuries
Specific ligament injuries that can occur in finger dislocations include:
- Radial collateral ligament injuries, which can result in ulnar deviation and volar translation of the proximal phalanx 3.
- Ulnar collateral ligament injuries, which are common in athletics and can be diagnosed through history and physical examination 4.
- Accessory radial collateral ligament injuries, which can contribute to instability and deformity of the finger 3.