Complex dislocation of the index metacarpophalangeal joint in children

Four cases of complex dislocation of the index metacarpophalangeal joint prior to skeletal maturity were reviewed. Despite the generalized laxity present in these children, none of the dislocations could be anatomically reduced by closed methods. Two patients had a concomitant osteochondral fracture from the ulnar side of the metacarpal epiphysis; one subsequently developed a lesion similar to an epiphyseal osteochondroma. One patient developed ischemic necrosis leading to premature growth arrest; a shortened metacarpal, and a deformed metacarpal head. The possibility of vascular damage must be considered in the skeletally immature patient, since the epiphyseal and physeal circulation may be compromised by either the dislocation or exposure for the reduction.