Carpometacarpal dislocation

Background

• Uncommon due to strong ligaments and insertions of wrist flexors/extensors

Clinical Features

• Cause is usually result of high-sped mechanisms
• Dislocates usually dorsally and associated with fracture(s)

Differential Diagnosis

Hand and finger dislocations

• Finger dislocations
  • Distal interphalangeal dislocation (finger) (DIP)
  • Proximal interphalangeal dislocation (finger) (PIP)
  • Metacarpophalangeal dislocation (finger) (MCP)
• Thumb dislocations
  • Interphalangeal dislocation (thumb) (IP)
  • Metacarpophalangeal dislocation (thumb) (MCP)
• Hand dislocations
  • Carpometacarpal dislocation

Management

Reduction

• Traction and flexion with simultaneous longitudinal pressure on metacarpal base

Disposition

• Refer to hand surgeon

See Also

• Hand and finger dislocations