Arthroscopic reduction of complex dorsal metacarpophalangeal dislocation of index finger

Complex dorsal dislocation of the metacarpophalangeal joint is an uncommon injury, typically caused by entrapment of the volar plate within the joint space. Closed reduction of the dislocation is not effective; instead, open reduction is necessary to release the soft tissues interposed between the metacarpal head and the proximal phalanx. However, an operative risk of digital nerve injury exists because of intricate displacement of the normal anatomy. We successfully reduced a dislocation by arthroscopic release of the entrapped volar plate. The case involved an 11-year-old boy with a complex dorsal dislocation of the metacarpophalangeal joint of the right index finger that had failed closed reduction. This technique allowed for reliable joint reduction, enabling observation of the structures obstructing the reduction; was less invasive; and avoided the risk of neurovascular injury. It is a reasonable method to use when the volar plate prevents reduction of the dislocation.