[Metacarpophalangeal joint injuries and sequelae]

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Hand Surgery
• Traumatology

Context:

• Metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joints of the thumb and fingers are susceptible to bony and ligamentous injuries.
• Improper diagnosis or treatment can lead to chronic instability, dislocations, fusion, arthritis, and significant gripping function impairment.

Purpose:

• To present current pathophysiological principles, diagnostic strategies, and therapeutic concepts for acute and chronic injuries of the MCP joints.
• To highlight the importance of timely and accurate management for optimal functional recovery.

Summary:

• Injuries can be bony or ligamentous, requiring operative treatment for fractures with large fragments and for torsion/instability.
• Chronic instabilities are managed with ligamentoplasty; thumb MCP joint arthritis with fusion.
• Finger MCP joint arthritis salvage involves denervation, resection arthroplasty, or arthrolysis, prioritizing motion preservation.

Impact:

• Effective management strategies can achieve good functional results even in chronic MCP joint conditions.
• This review aids clinicians in understanding and applying current best practices for MCP joint injury management.
• Improved patient outcomes and reduced long-term disability associated with hand and thumb injuries.