Purpose
To report the diagnosis and results of 12 surgically treated cases of isolated radial
collateral ligament (RCL) tears of the index finger (IF) metacarpophalangeal (MCP)
joint.
Methods
Between 1996 and 2002, there were 12 patients who were diagnosed with a tear of the
index RCL based on clinical evaluation, had surgical treatment, and were followed
up for a minimum of 23 months. All 12 patients sustained complete, full-thickness
tears. Three patients chose immediate surgical treatment, and 9 patients failed an
initial trial of conservative treatment. Surgical repair was performed because of
pain, swelling, tenderness, and instability, and a suture anchor was used in all repairs.
Intraoperative findings correlated with preoperative magnetic resonance imaging regarding
to the site of the tear and the presence of associated injuries. Range of motion,
grip strength, and lateral pinch strength were recorded. Patients were questioned
regarding satisfaction with their treatment and with their ability to return to work
and/or sporting activities.
Results
The RCL was avulsed more commonly from the metacarpal (7 patients) than from the proximal
phalanx (5 patients). There were no midsubstance tears. All patients reported resolution
of pain, ability to return to activities of daily living or sporting activities, and
satisfaction with treatment. The mean IF MCP joint arc of motion was 80°, with a mean
extension and flexion of 0° and 80°, respectively. There was no extensor lag and no
laxity to stress in any of the repaired ligaments. The mean grip strength expressed
as a percentage of the injured/noninjured side was 111%. The mean lateral pinch expressed
as a percentage of the injured/noninjured side was 112%.
Conclusions
On the basis of this study, IF RCL ruptures can be treated successfully with surgical
repair.
Type of study/level of evidence
Therapeutic IV.
Key words
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Article info
Publication history
Accepted:
December 13,
2006
Received:
December 13,
2006
Footnotes
No benefits in any form have been received or will be received from a commercial party related directly or indirectly to the subject of this article.
Identification
Copyright
© 2007 American Society for Surgery of the Hand. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
