TREATMENT OF THUMB ULNAR COLLATERAL LIGAMENT RUPTURES WITH THE MITEK BONE ANCHOR

Complete thumb ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) injuries usually requir e primacy repair. The ulnar collateral ligament is often torn from its insertion site and reattachment is difficult. Seven patients underwen t repair with the Mitek bone anchor (Mitek Surgical Products, Norwood, MA) for complete ulnar collateral ligament disruptions. A Stener lesi on was found in four patients. Follow-up examination was at approximat ely 1 year. All patients regained a stable metacarpophalangeal joint t o valgus stress. X-ray films demonstrated accurate placement of the bo ne anchor with protraction of the metallic wings within cancellous bon e. Range of motion revealed a 7% loss of metacarpophalangeal flexion-e xtension and a 21% loss of interphalangeal motion. Pinch strength in a pposition averaged 98% and in opposition 97% of the uninvolved hand. G rip strength was 96% of the contralateral extremity.