Second carpometacarpal joint dislocation: an impossible situation?

We report a case of a seemingly anatomically impossible dislocation of the second carpometacarpal joint treated by closed manipulation, and a review the literature. Isolated second carpometacarpal joint dislocation is rare, whereas dislocations of the first, fourth and fifth joints are more common. A true lateral X-ray is necessary if the injury is suspected clinically. We recommend that closed reduction under local anaesthetic is attempted, although the patient should be warned that subsequent open reduction may be necessary if closed reduction fails. Chronic unreduced dislocations do not produce serious disabilities in the hand.