Carpometacarpal Dislocations on the Ulnar Side of the Hand

Abstract

In reviewing the literature, one is impressed with the fact that carpometacarpal dislocations on the ulnar side of the hand can be treated by many different methods. Our conclusion is that in an acute fracture-dislocation, generally, reduction may be achieved by closed manipulation but maintenance of the reduced state may be difficult, as evidenced by two of our cases. If reduction is not complete, then open reduction is necessary, preferably supplemented by skeletal fixation and immobilization. In the acute, uncomplicated case, no disability should remain if there is early and complete relocation of the fracture-dislocation.