Locked Metacarpophalangeal Joint: Case Series, Anatomical Study, and Literature Review

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Gustavo José Teruya
Andrea Silvana Chaves
Gonzalo Martín Viollaz
Álvaro Javier Muratore
Alejandro Tedeschi
Rafael Durán
Diego José Gómez

Abstract

Introduction: Metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joint locking is a rare condition characterized by the sudden inability to achieve full extension.
Objectives: To present the results of our case series, describe the anatomical study conducted, and propose a treatment protocol for this condition.
Materials and Methods: We report on nine patients treated between 2006 and 2023 who sought medical attention for loss of MCP joint extension after performing forceful manual tasks.
Results: Eight patients underwent surgical treatment, while one achieved joint release through a reduction maneuver. All patients fully recovered their range of motion without complications or recurrences.
Conclusions: MCP joint locking is an uncommon condition. As a treatment protocol, we recommend initially attempting closed reduction. If surgery is required, a palmar approach for the middle finger or a palmar-radial approach should be used, as these provide optimal exposure of the accessory collateral ligament for release and allow for the resection of the bony spur to prevent recurrence.

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How to Cite
Teruya, G. J., Chaves, A. S., Viollaz, G. M., Muratore, Álvaro J., Tedeschi, A., Durán, R., & Gómez, D. J. (2025). Locked Metacarpophalangeal Joint: Case Series, Anatomical Study, and Literature Review. Revista De La Asociación Argentina De Ortopedia Y Traumatología, 90(1), 15-25. https://doi.org/10.15417/issn.1852-7434.2025.90.1.2018
Section
Clinical Research
Author Biographies

Gustavo José Teruya, Upper Limb Surgery Unit, Orthopedics and Traumatology Service, Hospital Británico de Buenos Aires, Autonomous City of Buenos Aires, Argentina

Upper Limb Surgery Unit, Orthopedics and Traumatology Service, Hospital Británico de Buenos Aires, Autonomous City of Buenos Aires, Argentina

Andrea Silvana Chaves, Upper Limb Surgery Unit, Orthopedics and Traumatology Service, Hospital Británico de Buenos Aires, Autonomous City of Buenos Aires, Argentina

Upper Limb Surgery Unit, Orthopedics and Traumatology Service, Hospital Británico de Buenos Aires, Autonomous City of Buenos Aires, Argentina

Gonzalo Martín Viollaz, Upper Limb Surgery Unit, Orthopedics and Traumatology Service, Hospital Británico de Buenos Aires, Autonomous City of Buenos Aires, Argentina

Upper Limb Surgery Unit, Orthopedics and Traumatology Service, Hospital Británico de Buenos Aires, Autonomous City of Buenos Aires, Argentina

Álvaro Javier Muratore, Upper Limb Surgery Unit, Orthopedics and Traumatology Service, Hospital Británico de Buenos Aires, Autonomous City of Buenos Aires, Argentina

Upper Limb Surgery Unit, Orthopedics and Traumatology Service, Hospital Británico de Buenos Aires, Autonomous City of Buenos Aires, Argentina

Alejandro Tedeschi, Upper Limb Surgery Unit, Orthopedics and Traumatology Service, Hospital Británico de Buenos Aires, Autonomous City of Buenos Aires, Argentina

Upper Limb Surgery Unit, Orthopedics and Traumatology Service, Hospital Británico de Buenos Aires, Autonomous City of Buenos Aires, Argentina

Rafael Durán, Upper Limb Surgery Unit, Orthopedics and Traumatology Service, Hospital Británico de Buenos Aires, Autonomous City of Buenos Aires, Argentina

Upper Limb Surgery Unit, Orthopedics and Traumatology Service, Hospital Británico de Buenos Aires, Autonomous City of Buenos Aires, Argentina

Diego José Gómez, Upper Limb Surgery Unit, Orthopedics and Traumatology Service, Hospital Británico de Buenos Aires, Autonomous City of Buenos Aires, Argentina

Upper Limb Surgery Unit, Orthopedics and Traumatology Service, Hospital Británico de Buenos Aires, Autonomous City of Buenos Aires, Argentina

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