Correction of Volar Subluxation Deformities of the Metacarpophalangeal Joints Following a Distal Radius Fracture in a Patient With Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

Abstract

Extensor tendon subluxation over the metacarpal head, leading to metacarpophalangeal joint ulnar deviation, is a hand deformity seen in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus. Apart from soft tissue procedures, metacarpal shortening osteotomy is a previously described surgical treatment for this deformity. We present a patient whose fixed deformity was spontaneously corrected after a displaced distal radius fracture. At 1 year, the correction was maintained. We discuss the biomechanical basis behind the phenomenon.

Keywords: Hand deformity; extensor tendon subluxation; metacarpophalangeal joint; systemic lupus erythematosus; volar subluxation.