Presentation
Fall from standing height onto his hand. Obvious deformity (see photographs below).
Patient Data
Hand and 2nd finger radiographs confirmed the suspected dislocation of the proximal interphalangeal joint (PIP). The dislocation can be classified as a type II dorsal dislocation (bayonet). No fractures are seen.
Hand and 2nd finger radiographs performed after the reduction revealed proper reduction of the PIP joint. No fractures are seen.
Photographs show the aspect of the finger on presentation and post the successful reduction of the dislocated finger.
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. Hand radiographs alone may miss more subtle fractures and/or dislocations of a digit.