The metacarpophalangeal stabilization test: its surgical interest.

ABSTRACT

If the fingers of the claw hand are stabilized in order to prevent over-extension of the metacarpophalangeal joints, the long extensors will fully extend both interphalangeal joints. Based on the proximal interphalangeal stiffness assessed by this test, a simple therapeutic plan is proposed for the choice of the appropriate techniques for palliative claw hand surgery.