The Epidemiology of Finger Dislocations Presenting for Emergency Care Within the United States

Abstract

Background: There are little demographic data on finger dislocation injuries. This study examines the epidemiological characteristics of patients presenting for emergency care of finger dislocations within the United States. Methods: The National Electronic Injury Surveillance System was queried for finger dislocation injuries treated in US emergency departments between 2004 and 2008. Weighted estimates, in conjunction with Census data, were used to analyze patient demographics, injury locales, and incidence rates within and between, demographic groups. Results: During the 5-year study period, an estimated 166 561 finger dislocations were treated in 1 499 222 917 person-years: an incidence rate of 11.11 per 100 000 person-years. Males were predominantly affected (78.7%) at an incidence rate of 17.8 per 100 000. The rate in females was 4.65 per 100 000 person-years. Most dislocations occurred in the 15- to 19-year age group (38.6 dislocations per 100 000 person-years). Among racial groups, blacks (16.8) were affected more than whites (7.72) or patients characterized as “other” (4.90). In terms of injury venue, 35.9% of cases took place at a sporting or recreational facility. In addition, 44.7% of sports-related dislocations occurred while playing either basketball or football. Conclusions: In the United States, finger dislocations appear to occur most often in black males 15 to 19 years of age and among sports participants, particularly basketball and football players.