Traumatic dislocation of the first carpometacarpal joint

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Traumatology
• Hand Surgery

Background:

• Carpometacarpal (CMC) joint dislocations of the thumb are rare injuries.
• These injuries can lead to significant morbidity and loss of function if not managed appropriately.

Observation:

• A case of traumatic left thumb CMC joint dislocation without associated fracture is presented.
• The injury occurred during skiing and was initially managed with closed reduction and splinting in the emergency department.

Findings:

• The patient required close follow-up with a hand surgeon for definitive surgical fixation.
• Review of literature indicates the rarity and specific management challenges of these dislocations.

Implications:

• Highlights the importance of accurate diagnosis and timely intervention for thumb CMC joint dislocations.
• Emphasizes the need for surgical fixation in certain cases to restore joint stability and function.
• Underscores the potential for long-term functional deficits if these injuries are mismanaged.