AVULSION FRACTURE OF THE METACARPOPHALANGEAL JOINT OF THE FINGER

Six patients with avulsion fractures of the metacarpophalangeal joints of the fingers are reported. Operation was performed in all cases. Ju dging from the operative findings, the radiological assessment of frag ment shape is helpful in treatment. Surgery is recommended when the fr agment is triangular or rectangular in shape because the fracture invo lves the articular surface. Conservative treatment is effective if the fragment is round because the articular surface of the joint is not i nvolved in this type of fracture. The avulsed fragment often overlaps the metacarpal head and a collateral ligament injury is likely to be m isdiagnosed. It is important to suspect this injury and assess the sha pe of the whole fragment for a good functional result.