Modified Eaton-Littler's Reconstruction for Traumatic Dislocation of the Carpometacarpal Joint of the Thumb-A Case Report and Review of Literature

J Hand Microsurg. 2013 Jun;5(1):36-42. doi: 10.1007/s12593-012-0067-x. Epub 2012 Apr 28.

Abstract

Isolated traumatic dislocation of the carpometacarpal joint of the thumb is an uncommon injury. Left untreated, resulting mechanical instability of this joint interferes with normal function of the hand and can lead to articular degeneration of the joint. Most are amenable to closed reduction with or without supplementary pinning. We present a case of a 21 year old female patient with continual instability of the carpometacarpal joint of her right thumb, following closed reduction and pinning. Surgical stabilization was achieved by anterior oblique ligament reconstruction using a Modified Eaton- Littler's technique. At 1 year follow-up evaluation the patient was pain free with no clinico-radiological evidence of instability.

Keywords: Anterior oblique ligament; Carpometacarpal joint; Dislocation; Ligament reconstruction; Thumb.

Publication types

  • Case Reports