A rare case of closed isolated dislocation of the third metacarpophalangeal joint of the hand

Abstract Metacarpophalangeal joint [MCP] dislocations of the index, little and thumb are common; that of the middle finger is very rare. In all the literature consulted only five cases of isolated closed dorsal dislocation of the MCP joint of the middle finger have been reported. Hyperextension of MCP joint is the mechanism of injury. We are herewith reporting a case of isolated MCP dislocation of the middle finger. One of our medical students while driving a motorcycle fell down on the road and sustained lacerated wound over the hypothenar area of the left hand. There was prominence of the head of the third metacarpal on the volar aspect and the base of the proximal phalanx was prominent dorsally. MCP dislocation of the middle finger was our clinical diagnosis which was confirmed by the radiograph. The patient had reported within 60 min of the accident. There was no tendon injury. Wound debridement was done, wound was extended to the back of the middle finger. The volar plate which was interposed between the head of the metacarpal and the base of the proximal phalanx was repositioned and the dislocation was reduced. Reduction was stable and the patient was reviewed after 14 months. The function of the hand is satisfactory. The case is presented for its unique presentation. This is the sixth case of isolated dislocation of the MCP joint of the middle finger.