[Finger injuries with a focus on ligamentous structures].

BACKGROUND

Ligamentous lesions of the fingers are common everyday injuries and usually the result of distortion or overloading. Numerous examination methods are available for dedicated radiological diagnosis of sometimes complex injury patterns.

OBJECTIVES

To review radiological diagnosis of the ligamentous structures of the finger joints including the presentation of anatomical, biomechanical and therapeutic aspects.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Presentation of the anatomy and biomechanics as well as the most common trauma mechanisms of the ligamentous structures. Review of the literature, discussion of recent work and diagnostic expert recommendations.

RESULTS

The most relevant ligamentous structures are collateral ligaments, pulley ligaments, volar plates and tendons. The goal of radiologic diagnosis is to accurately define the injury pattern and to differentiate between simple and complicated ligamentous lesions. In unclear cases, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has become standard for further diagnostics, which may allow depiction of ligamentous structures in submillimetre resolution.

CONCLUSIONS

Today, differential diagnosis includes all radiological modalities, which ensures the determination of an adequate therapy and prevention of sequel at a high standard.