[Therapy of ulnar collateral-ligament injury at the metacarpophalangeal joint of the thumb].

We have compared the result of operative treatment with the results of conservative treatment of rupture of the ulnar collateral ligament of the thumb. We recommend immediate repair. 24 patients were examined: The 11 conservatively treated patients showed an unsatisfactory result as compared with the 13 operated patients, who demonstrated a successful repair with a stable joint and normal painless function.