Acute middle finger radial collateral ligament rupture in an obstetrician during an obstructed labour: a case report and review of the literature
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.69133/aoth.v77i2.536Keywords:
Radial collateral ligaments; metacarpophalangeal joint; middle finger; ruptureAbstract
Introduction: Collateral ligaments (CL) injuries of the finger metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joints, other than the thumb, are not commonly encountered and most of the patients are underrecognized. They require prompt evaluation to ensure proper management and prevent long-term residual laxity, pain, loss of joint motion, stiffness, and finally permanent disability.
Case presentation: A 63-year-old male obstetrician was evaluated 3 months after an acute trauma at the radial aspect of the middle finger MCP joint, of his dominant right hand. The mechanism of injury, physical examination, conventional radiographs, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed disruption of both (proper and accessory) radial collateral ligaments. A dorsolateral approach was used for surgical intervention and the direct repair of the ligamentous rupture.
Discussion: Collateral ligament tears of the MCP joints are more frequent than indicated in the literature and many times are underdiagnosed. If they do not receive the appropriate treatment could cause chronic pain and functional impairment, especially in highly demand patients. Τhe anatomical restoration of the overlying structures significantly determines the postoperative functional results.
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