[A new method of transosseous pull-out wire fixation in ligamentous injuries of the metacarpophalangeal joint of the thumb].

Surgical repair is usually indicated for rupture of the ulnar collateral ligament of the MP-joint of the thumb. The pull-out wire technique is commonly used for repair of typically distal ligamentous ruptures or avulsion fractures at the base of the proximal phalanx. The method's disadvantages include skin or soft tissue necrosis beneath the button on the radial side of the thumb. When postoperative swelling subsides, the formerly taught wire loosens and so does the repair. Because of this inherent danger, a special steel sleeve which is drawn over the wire on the radial side of the thumb until bone contact is made was developed. Thus, a strong and unyielding fixation of the ulnar collateral ligament repair or avulsed bone chip is certain. The follow-up for 41 patients treated by this technical modification is presented; there were no complications, including wound infections.