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Abstract

Evaluating a scientific paper often starts with an assessment of the manuscript’s technical construction and the project design; these elements often characterize the reader’s “first impression.” From this perspective, the article by McKeon et al. makes a good first impression. In this cadaver dissection study, stability of the thumb metacarpophalangeal joint is assessed after progressive release of the proper and accessory collateral ligaments. The authors identify radiographic parameters that correlate with metacarpophalangeal joint instability, noting in particular that radial translation of the proximal phalanx relative to the thumb metacarpal head correlates with disruption of both collateral ligament structures. This paper is easy to read, and the technical details of the experimental environment and anatomic dissection are detailed and clear. The radiographic reproductions, which are especially critical to the presentation of the data, are well prepared and simple to understand. The authors wrote a good Discussion section in which they properly frame the practical considerations related to a reliable radiographic finding that correlates with complete ulnar collateral ligament disruption. Furthermore, this project is important because ulnar collateral ligament injuries of the thumb are very …