Phalanx fractures and dislocations in athletes

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Sports Medicine
• Hand Trauma

Background:

• Phalangeal fractures, dislocations, and fracture-dislocations are common hand injuries in athletes.
• Understanding injury mechanisms and anatomy is crucial for effective management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current literature on diagnosing and treating phalangeal injuries in athletes.
• To address the critical concern of return to play for injured athletes.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of recent articles on phalangeal injuries in athletes.
• Analysis of established and emerging treatment strategies.

Main Results:

• Most phalangeal injuries in athletes can be managed non-operatively.
• Technological advancements in implants may facilitate earlier rehabilitation and return to sport.
• Elite athletes may require specialized treatment considerations, with surgery decided case-by-case.

Conclusions:

• Treatment goals include restoring bone and joint alignment and stability for timely return to competition.
• While surgical implants may offer accelerated recovery, evidence is still limited.
• Phalangeal injuries in athletes are often managed similarly to those in the general population.