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MCP (Metacarpophalangeal) Dislocation, Sports Medicine

Jessica Stumbo, MD, CAQSM and Steven T. Brown, MD Reviewed 04/2019
 


BASICS

  • The metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joints are relatively stable joints, especially in flexion.

  • Stability is provided by collateral ligaments on either side of the joint or the volar plate. The collat...

DIAGNOSIS

HISTORY

  • Will complain of pain, loss of function, and usually an obvious deformity

  • Dorsal dislocation generally results from forced hyperextension of digit, as in striking the heel of an oppone...

TREATMENT

  • Anesthesia:

    • Various methods of anesthesia can be used for reduction, including local intra-articular, regional block, or intravenous (IV) sedation. Typically for intra-articular injections, a...

ONGOING CARE

FOLLOW-UP RECOMMENDATIONS

After successful closed reduction, most MCP dislocations should be followed up with an orthopedic surgeon or hand surgeon within a week. 

PATIENT EDUCATION

Warn pat...

REFERENCES

1
Dinh P, Franklin A, Hutchinson B, et al. Metacarpophalangeal joint dislocation. J Am Acad Orthop Surg.  2009;17(5):318–324.
2
Hubbard LF. Metacarpophalangeal dislocations. Hand Clin. &#...

ADDITIONAL READING

  • Ashkenaze DM, Ruby LK. Metacarpal fractures and dislocations. Orthop Clin North Am.  1992;23(1):19–33.

  • Lee SJ, Montgomery K. Athletic hand injuries. Orthop Clin North Am.  ...

CLINICAL PEARLS

  • Dorsal dislocations are the most common type of MCP joint dislocations.

  • When attempting to reduce a dorsal MCP joint dislocation, do not use distal traction; risk converting simple disl...

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