Arthroscopic treatment of acute complete thumb metacarpophalangeal ulnar collateral ligament tears.

An arthroscopic technique was used to reduce Stener lesions associated with acute ulnar collateral ligament ruptures of the thumb. We operated on eight thumbs, seven dominant and one nondominant. The average follow-up period was 39 months (range, 30-48). At follow-up examination, no patient reported pain or functional limitation or had joint contracture. In most cases, key pinch, tip pinch, grip strength, and range of motion were equal to or greater than in the thumb on the unaffected side. The only complication, a pin track infection, resolved after wire removal and treatment with oral antibiotics. Results indicate that arthroscopic reduction of a Stener lesion allows healing of the ulnar collateral ligament without the need for open repair.