How Finger Dislocation Surgery Restores Mobility and Functionality

Finger dislocations can disrupt your daily life in painful and frustrating ways. Whether caused by a sports injury, accident, or an unfortunate fall, this condition can make even simple tasks like typing or gripping objects a challenge. While many finger dislocations heal with non-surgical treatments, severe cases may require surgery to restore mobility and functionality. In this blog, we’ll explore how finger dislocation surgery works and how it helps patients get back to their routine.

What Is a Finger Dislocation?

A finger dislocation happens when the bones in a finger are pushed out of alignment at a joint. This injury most commonly affects the middle joint (proximal interphalangeal or PIP), but it can also involve the distal interphalangeal (DIP) or the metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joints.

What Causes Finger Dislocations?

Sports Injuries: Activities like basketball or volleyball often lead to finger dislocations due to high impact.

Accidents: Falls, workplace mishaps, or car accidents can force the bones out of place.

Hyperextension: Stretching the finger too far can result in a dislocation.

Common Symptoms:

• A visible deformity or abnormal angle of the finger
• Intense pain and swelling
• Difficulty moving the finger
• Bruising or discoloration around the joint

While mild dislocations can often be treated with realignment, splinting, and physical therapy, more serious cases involving fractures or ligament damage may require surgery.

When Is Surgery Needed?

Surgery becomes necessary for finger dislocations under the following conditions:

Irreducible Dislocations: When the bones cannot be manually realigned due to tissue or ligament interference.

Fracture-Dislocations: Dislocations accompanied by fractures that compromise joint stability.

Chronic Instability: Repeated dislocations or ongoing joint instability after conservative treatments.

Severe Ligament or Tendon Damage: When soft tissue injuries hinder normal finger movement.

The Surgical Process

Finger dislocation surgery is tailored to the type and severity of the injury. Here’s an overview of the procedure:

Pre-Surgical Evaluation:

• Imaging tests like X-rays or MRIs assess the injury’s extent
• A comprehensive medical review ensures the patient is fit for surgery.

Surgical Techniques: Depending on the injury, surgeons may use one or more of these methods:

• Open Reduction: An incision allows the surgeon to realign the bones.
• Internal Fixation: Pins, screws, or plates stabilize fractures.
• Ligament Repair: Damaged ligaments are repaired or reconstructed
• Tendon Realignment: Tendons are repositioned or repaired to restore proper function.

Post-Surgical Closure: The incision is sutured, and the finger is immobilized with a splint or cast to ensure proper healing.

Recovery and Rehabilitation

Healing after finger dislocation surgery is a gradual process, requiring patience and a commitment to rehabilitation.

Immobilization:

• The finger is immobilized for 2–6 weeks to allow the healing of bones and soft tissues.

Pain Management:

• Prescribed medications and cold therapy help manage post-operative pain and swelling.

Physical Therapy:

• Rehabilitation focuses on restoring range of motion, strength, and dexterity through targeted exercises.

Return to Activities:

• Most patients can resume normal activities within 2–3 months, although athletes may require additional recovery time.

Why Surgery Can Make a Difference

For severe or complicated dislocations, surgery offers significant benefits:

Restored Mobility: Proper alignment and repair of damaged tissues help regain full movement.

Improved Stability: Surgical stabilization reduces the risk of recurrent dislocations.

Pain Relief: Corrective surgery alleviates chronic pain caused by untreated injuries.

Enhanced Quality of Life: Restoring hand functionality allows patients to return to daily tasks and hobbies without limitations.

Understanding Risks and Complications

As with any surgery, there are risks, including:

• Infection: Rare but manageable with proper care.
• Stiffness: Can be minimized with physical therapy.
• Scar Tissue: May affect motion but can often be treated.
• Nerve Damage: Rare instances of temporary or permanent nerve issues.

Discuss these risks with your hand surgeon and follow their recovery guidelines to minimize complications.