Thumb Metacarpophalangeal Ligaments Injuries

This chapter includes description of the ulnar and radial collateral ligaments of the thumb metacarpophalangeal joint. These joint stabilizers can be injured with acute stress or chronic strain being applied to the articulation. Such injury can be functionally debilitating. Proper clinical examination coupled with adjunct investigations allows the clinician to determine the best treatment option. Partial injuries can be treated nonoperatively while complete rupture generally warrants surgical repair with intrasubstance suturing, bone tunnels, or suture anchors. When presenting chronically, these patients should be offered ligament reconstruction with tendon grafting if the cartilage surface are preserved. Postoperative rehabilitation protocols allow return to normal activities within 3 months in most cases.