Ulnar collateral ligament repair of the metacarpo-phalangeal joint of the thumb: a study comparing two methods of repair.

25 patients were assessed following repair of an acutely ruptured ulnar collateral ligament of the thumb metacarpo-phalangeal joint. The patients were divided into two groups, repaired by either a horizontal mattress suture using 4/0 polybutylate (nine patients), or a pre-fashioned steel wire (16 patients). Assessment included a physical examination and functional testing at a mean of 12.9 months (range 4-36 months) after the operation. Both techniques were equally effective, and the use of the more expensive steel wire, while technically satisfying and easy to perform, offers no clinical advantage over simple suture. This pre-fashioned steel wire is, however, recommended in those cases with an avulsion fracture or where distal avulsion of the ligament is associated, since the technique allows easy secure reduction.