Presentation
Direct hit of a football to the fingertips. Obvious deformity upon physical examination.
Patient Data
Hand radiograph confirmed the suspected dislocation of the proximal interphalangeal joint (PIP) of the 3rd finger. The dislocation can be classified as a type II dorsal dislocation (bayonet). No fractures are seen.
Case Discussion
Dorsal proximal interphalangeal joint dislocations are usually the result of a hyperextension mechanism.
Plain radiographs are often sufficient to diagnose a PIP joint dislocation, but it is important to study the digit with proper frontal and lateral radiographs, which unfortunately were not performed in this case. Hand radiographs alone may miss more subtle fractures and/or dislocations of a digit.