Entrapment of the index finger radial collateral ligament in the metacarpophalangeal joint: A case report

Abstract

Introduction Digital collateral ligament injuries are common hand injuries that can cause significant pain and functional impairment. Ultrasonography can be useful in the evaluation of these ligamentous injuries, as it is both cost-effective and allows for easy, dynamic evaluation during imaging. Case report We report a rare sonographic finding of an index finger radial collateral ligament injury that was found to have a flap of the ligament entrapped within the metacarpophalangeal joint, which to our knowledge has not been described previously. We correlate this finding with an intraoperative image of the entrapment of the collateral ligament. We also report on the novel application of superb microvascular imaging to aid in the diagnosis of digital collateral ligament injury. Discussion This particular injury pattern has not been reported in the literature previously and likely explains the patient’s lack of improvement with nonoperative management. Our finding is similar to a Stener lesion seen in a thumb ulnar collateral ligament injury in which the ligament is unable to heal due to entrapment. In addition, using superb microvascular imaging (SMI), we were able to visualize hyperemia to surrounding structures and the ligament itself which suggested an acute injury. Conclusion We anticipate that this case report will provide sonographers with knowledge and images of this specific injury pattern to the digital collateral ligaments.

Middle Finger Metacarpophalangeal Joint Locked in Flexion Caused by Entrapped Ulnar Collateral Ligament

“…1,4,6,7 Although x-rays and MRI studies can be difficult to interpret in cases of MCP joint locking, another imaging modality could be used in the future. Jiang et al 9 described the use of superb microvascular ultrasonography to visualize radial collateral ligament entrapment in a case of MCP joint locking. Superb microvascular imaging is a low-cost method that has been widely available since 2014 as an imaging sequence on the Xario 200, Aplio i-series, and Aplio Platinum series ultrasound technologies.…”

“…The use of superb microvascular imaging may also help decrease costs compared with using MRI. 9 More often, the cause of MCP joint locking is a radial-sided osteophyte of the metacarpal head. Our case was unique in that our patient had an ulnar-sided osteophyte.…”