A patient presents after falling down some stairs. The chief complaint is pain to the right thumb. During the examination, you note gross laxity in the first metacarpophalangeal joint when moving the right thumb into abduction. An x-ray reveals no fracture. Which of the following structures is injured?
A. radial collateral ligament of the thumb
B. ulnar collateral ligament of the thumb
C. flexor tendons of the thumb
D. extensor tendons of the thumb
E. median nerve, causing thenar musculature hypotonicity
Answer: B
Ulnar collateral ligament of the thumb
This is the ulnar collateral ligament - must be referred. Look at the anatomy of the thumb!
Know Your Content Blueprint
Soft tissue injuries of the forearm, wrist, and hand is covered as part of the PANCE Musculoskeletal Blueprint
Review Topic: Soft tissue injuries of the forearm, wrist and hand (ReelDx)