Surgical excision of symptomatic lateral band snapping syndrome in small finger proximal interphalangeal joint

Lateral band snapping syndrome can be a debilitating condition involving the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint of the fingers. Although rare, it is thought to occur due to disruption of the finger extensor mechanism allowing inappropriate subluxation of the lateral bands over the PIP joint, leading to mechanical and painful symptoms.Here, we describe a woman in her early 40s with a painful, snapping PIP joint secondary to a work-related injury. On examination, there was radial lateral band subluxation with joint motion.The dorsal aspect of the small finger was explored, and the radial lateral band was found to be subluxated during the active range of motion. The injured retinacular ligament along with the pathological lateral band was excised. Postoperatively, the patient was allowed to have unrestricted range of motion. At the latest follow-up, there was no active or passive triggering/snapping symptoms, as well as full range of motion of the affected digit.