The Skier's Thumb: Ulnar Displacement of the Extensor Pollicis Longus Tendon – a New Type?

Abstract

The incidence of disruption of the ulnar collateral ligament of the thumb's metacarpophalangeal joint (skier's thumb, gamekeeper's thumb) has increased over the past 20 years. Six different types of injury could be defined. Soft tissue interposition in the joint as well as radial dislocation of the extensor pollicis tendon have been described. We present the case of a skier's thumb with ulnar dislocation of the extensor pollicis longus tendon and tendon interposition in the joint provoking subluxation. The question arises if it possibly constitutes a new, seventh type of this injury.