The Lateral Approach in the Surgical Treatment of a Complex Dorsal Metacarpophalangeal Joint Dislocation of the Index Finger

Abstract

Complex dorsal metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joint dislocations as a result of hyperextension injuries are uncommon in the pediatric population and irreducible to closed maneuvers. Treatment of these complex lesions is invariably surgical, and dorsal or volar approaches are traditionally used. The authors describe a case of a 16-year-old male who suffered a fall onto his outstretched right hand in a soccer game. The patient presented to the ER with pain and deformity of the index finger MCP joint. Radiographs confirmed a complex MCP dislocation with a small osteochondral fragment. A lateral surgical approach was made, and interposition of the volar plate and an osteochondral fragment blocking the reduction were found. This versatile approach allowed access to volar and dorsal structures, minimizing the risk of surgical scarring and mobility arch limitation. To our knowledge, there are no reported cases regarding a lateral surgical approach.