A painful thumb. (22nd May 2013)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Chan, Yuen
• Is Part Of: BMJ case reports. Volume 2013
• Publication Date: 2013-05-22
• Subjects: Medicine -- Case studies -- Periodicals; 610.5
• DOI: 10.1136/bcr-2013-009349
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1757-790X

Abstract

Abstract : Isolated traumatic carpometacarpal (CMC) dislocation of the thumb is a rare injury. There are many different ways to manage a thumb CMC joint dislocation which ranges from closed reduction with or without Kirschner wires and casting to ligament reconstruction. However, it is still up for debate on the best management for this injury. We describe a case of isolated traumatic carpometacarpal dislocation of the first CMC joint in a 22-year-old student and reviewed the evidence on management. Our patient was managed with manipulation under anaesthesia (MUA). She returned to preinjury activities with no difficulties within 2 months. Good outcomes can be achieved with MUA to manage dislocation of the first CMC joint; however, those with high activity of the hand may also benefit from ligament reconstruction.