Reinsertion of the ruptured ulnar collateral ligament of the metacarpophalangeal joint with an absorbable self-reinforced polylactide tack.

70 patients with total avulsion or rupture of the ulnar collateral ligament of the first metacarpophalangeal joint were treated surgically, using an absorbable self-reinforced poly-L-lactide mini-tack placed through the ligament and a channel in the base of the proximal phalanx. The device stabilized the joint immediately, and 69 ligaments remained stable at 6 months. The subjective result was good or satisfactory in 66 of the cases. One case needed further surgery for pain in the scar and another developed local infection 9 months post-operatively. On the basis of these findings, the new absorbable fixation method seems to be a suitable method for clinical use.