Game keeper thumb

ABSTRACT

The evaluation of treatment of injuries of the ulnar collateral ligament of the metacarpophalangeal joint [MPJ] of the thumb remains controversial. The presence of Stener lesion [inter position of the adductor aponeurosis between the free ends of the ligaments] prevent proper healing. There is a general agreement that partial tears [sprains] of the ulnar collateral should be treated non-operatively by moulded thumb plaster cast in slight flexion for three to six weeks. But there is an increasing strong support for the operative treatment of all acute rupture of ulnar collateral ligaments of the thumb even in absence of Stener lesion. Diagnosis is easy done by clinical and radiological methods [stress films]