Hand dislocations

Abstract

Finger dislocations are incredibly common injuries. They are very common in the pediatric athletic population. They are most frequently reduced on the playing field by athletic trainers, but are also seen in the Emergency Department. Most often, they are simple dislocations which are easily reducible. Finger dislocations can occur anywhere along the digits: The carpometacarpal joint, the metacarpophalangeal joint, the proximal interphalangeal joint, and the distal interphalangeal joint. Not all dislocations are easily reducible, and some need operative intervention to reduce the joint. There are several structures specific to each joint which can impede a stable reduction. A stable reduction is essential to proper long term function of the digit and the hand as a whole. Proper knowledge of both closed and open methods of joint reduction are essential for orthopaedists and hand surgeons alike.