Recurrent posttraumatic trapeziometacarpal joint dislocation in a child: A case report

Abstract

Traumatic trapeziometacarpal joint dislocation of the thumb accounts for less than 1% of all hand injuries. This injury is even less common in children. Optimal treatment strategies for this injury are still the subject of debate for both children and adults. We report a case of recurrent posttraumatic trapeziometacarpal joint dislocation in an eight-year-old girl. We believe our case is the first report of recurrent acute dislocation leading to chronic dislocation in the English medical literature. Restoring the anatomy and biomechanics of the trapeziometacarpal joint is essential when treating these injuries; for this reason, surgical treatment is usually indicated. Overall, the prognosis of trapeziometacarpal dislocation treated acutely is favorable and stable over time. However, the role of open surgery and ligament reconstruction remains controversial, especially in children.

Keywords: Articulation trapézo-métacarpienne; Child; Dislocation; Enfant; Instability; Instabilité; Luxation; Pouce; Thumb; Trapeziometacarpal joint.