Splint immobilization of gamekeeper's thumb.

Thirty-nine patients diagnosed with 40 acute complete ruptures of the ulnar collateral ligament of the thumb metacarpophalangeal joint were treated primarily with thumb spica splint immobilization. Duration of splinting ranged from 8 to 12 weeks. Thirty-four of these injuries (85%) followed for 1 to 5 years (average 2.4 years) healed without significant instability, arthrosis, pain, or stiffness (range of motion within 80% of the contralateral hand). Six ruptures (15%) demonstrated persistent instability and pain at 12 weeks and were treated with surgical reconstruction. Currently accepted guidelines for surgical intervention as primary treatment for ligamentous disruption at the thumb metacarpophalangeal joint may need revision. This study suggests that splint immobilization is an effective primary treatment modality. The minority of patients who demonstrate persistent laxity can be successfully treated surgically with excellent results.