Distal interphalangeal dislocation (finger)

Background

• Uncommon due to firm attachment of skin and subq tissue to underlying bone
• When dislocations do occur usually are dorsal

Differential Diagnosis

Hand and finger dislocations

• Finger dislocations
  • Distal interphalangeal dislocation (finger) (DIP)
  • Proximal interphalangeal dislocation (finger) (PIP)
  • Metacarpophalangeal dislocation (finger) (MCP)
• Thumb dislocations
  • Interphalangeal dislocation (thumb) (IP)
  • Metacarpophalangeal dislocation (thumb) (MCP)
• Hand dislocations
  • Carpometacarpal dislocation

Management

Reduction

• Digital nerve block
• Apply longitudinal traction/ hyperextension followed by dorsal pressure to phalanx base
• Irreducible cases due to entrapment of avulsion fx, profundus tendor or volar plate

Splinting

• Splint in slight flexion with dorsal splint x 3wk

See Also

• Hand and finger dislocations