Chronic radial collateral ligament injury

Abstract

The ulnar and radial collateral ligaments are primary stabilizers of the thumb metacarpophalangealjoint. Radial collateral ligament injuries are rare although they are less common than ulnar collateral ligament injuries. The management of injury to the radial collateral ligaments at the metacarpophalangeal joint of the thumb is complex. Treatment options are many. Inadequate treatment leads to a poorfunctional outcome for the patient. We present an old neglected RCL injury and discuss how we managed it.