[Metacarpophalangeal dislocation of the index finger. Apropos of 7 operated cases].

Complex dislocation of the metacarpophalangeal joint of the index finger is an uncommon injury. The authors report seven cases, including three neglected dislocations, two with associated osteochondral fractures and one with sesamoid entrapment. Open reduction was necessary in each of the seven cases. In recent dislocations (four cases), both approaches were successful in obtaining reduction and normal finger movements were obtained. The dorsal approach was simple and safe, while the palmar approach was difficult and had many disadvantages. In the case with sesamoid entrapment, the sesamoid had to be removed to achieve reduction. In neglected dislocations (three cases), the dorsal approach was successful in one case (three weeks), two incisions were necessary in one case (seven months), and one case was treated by Swanson prothesis (two years). None of these patients regained normal mobility postoperatively.