Abstract
Radial collateral ligament of the index finger is a rare ligament to rupture. X-ray is generally normal, except for subtle findings of soft tissue swelling and occasionally a small fracture. With continuous advances in imaging, ultrasound and high quality MRI allow clear depiction of small structures including joint capsule and collateral ligaments of even the small joints. This helps in definitive diagnosis and determines the extent of injury, which may affect the treatment options and final outcome. We report a rare case of index finger metacarpo-phalangeal joint radial collateral ligament tear. The subtle X-ray abnormality was chased on ultrasound and the diagnosis was proposed on ultrasound and later confirmed on MRI. We also discuss the imaging findings of this rare entity.
Highlights
Radial collateral ligament of the index finger is a rare ligament to rupture
The stable pinch mechanism depends on the integrity of the radial collateral ligament (RCL) of the index finger (IF) and ulnar collateral ligament of the thumb metacarpo-phalangeal joints (MCPJ)
Injury to the collateral ligament of the MCPJ is common in the thumb and small finger, these being the border digits
Summary
Radial collateral ligament of the index finger is a rare ligament to rupture. X-ray is generally normal, except for subtle findings of soft tissue swelling and occasionally a small fracture. The stable pinch mechanism depends on the integrity of the radial collateral ligament (RCL) of the index finger (IF) and ulnar collateral ligament of the thumb metacarpo-phalangeal joints (MCPJ). Injury to the collateral ligament of the MCPJ is common in the thumb and small finger, these being the border digits. Index finger MCPJ collateral ligament is rare to get injured.
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