Stener lesion: Difference between revisions

Revision as of 05:13, 16 February 2025

A type of injury to the thumb's ulnar collateral ligament

Overview

A Stener lesion is a specific type of injury that occurs in the thumb, involving the ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) of the metacarpophalangeal joint. This injury is characterized by the displacement of the torn ligament, which becomes trapped above the adductor aponeurosis, preventing proper healing and leading to chronic instability if not treated appropriately.

Anatomy

The ulnar collateral ligament is a critical stabilizer of the thumb's metacarpophalangeal joint. It is located on the ulnar side of the joint and is responsible for resisting valgus stress. The adductor aponeurosis is a fibrous structure that covers the UCL and the adductor pollicis muscle.

Pathophysiology

A Stener lesion occurs when the UCL is completely torn and the distal end of the ligament is displaced superficially to the adductor aponeurosis. This displacement prevents the ligament from healing in its anatomical position, leading to persistent instability of the thumb joint.

Clinical Presentation

Patients with a Stener lesion typically present with pain, swelling, and instability of the thumb following an acute injury, often due to a fall or a direct blow to the thumb. The inability to pinch or grasp objects firmly is a common complaint.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of a Stener lesion is primarily clinical, supported by imaging studies. Ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are useful in confirming the displacement of the UCL.

Treatment

Surgical intervention is typically required to correct a Stener lesion. The procedure involves relocating the displaced ligament and securing it in its anatomical position, often using suture anchors. Postoperative rehabilitation is crucial for restoring function and strength.

Prognosis

With appropriate surgical treatment and rehabilitation, most patients regain full function of the thumb. However, delayed treatment can lead to chronic instability and arthritis.

Related pages

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-'''Stener Lesion''' is a type of injury that occurs in the thumb. It is named after the Swedish surgeon, Dr. Bertil Stener, who first described the condition in 1962. This injury is characterized by the displacement of the ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) of the thumb's metacarpophalangeal joint (MCPJ) from its normal anatomic position to a position superficial to the adductor pollicis aponeurosis.
+{{Short description|A type of injury to the thumb's ulnar collateral ligament}}
-== Causes ==
+==Overview==
-The Stener lesion is typically caused by a sudden forceful abduction of the thumb, often seen in sports injuries or falls. This forceful movement can cause the UCL to tear and displace, leading to the formation of a Stener lesion.
+A '''Stener lesion''' is a specific type of injury that occurs in the [[thumb]], involving the [[ulnar collateral ligament]] (UCL) of the [[metacarpophalangeal joint]]. This injury is characterized by the displacement of the torn ligament, which becomes trapped above the [[adductor aponeurosis]], preventing proper healing and leading to chronic instability if not treated appropriately.
-== Symptoms ==
+==Anatomy==
-The main symptoms of a Stener lesion include pain, swelling, and instability of the thumb. The patient may also experience difficulty in gripping objects and decreased range of motion.
+The [[ulnar collateral ligament]] is a critical stabilizer of the [[thumb]]'s [[metacarpophalangeal joint]]. It is located on the ulnar side of the joint and is responsible for resisting valgus stress. The [[adductor aponeurosis]] is a fibrous structure that covers the UCL and the [[adductor pollicis muscle]].
-== Diagnosis ==
+==Pathophysiology==
-Diagnosis of a Stener lesion is usually made through a combination of physical examination and imaging studies. The physical examination may reveal tenderness and instability of the thumb. Imaging studies such as X-rays, ultrasound, or MRI can help confirm the diagnosis.
+A Stener lesion occurs when the UCL is completely torn and the distal end of the ligament is displaced superficially to the [[adductor aponeurosis]]. This displacement prevents the ligament from healing in its anatomical position, leading to persistent instability of the [[thumb]] joint.
-== Treatment ==
+==Clinical Presentation==
-Treatment of a Stener lesion usually involves surgery to reposition and repair the displaced UCL. Following surgery, the thumb is usually immobilized for a period of time to allow for healing.
+Patients with a Stener lesion typically present with pain, swelling, and instability of the [[thumb]] following an acute injury, often due to a fall or a direct blow to the thumb. The inability to pinch or grasp objects firmly is a common complaint.
-== Prognosis ==
+==Diagnosis==
-With appropriate treatment, most patients with a Stener lesion can expect a good prognosis and return to normal function.
+The diagnosis of a Stener lesion is primarily clinical, supported by imaging studies. [[Ultrasound]] and [[magnetic resonance imaging]] (MRI) are useful in confirming the displacement of the UCL.
-== See Also ==
+[[File:Stener_lesion_in_ultrasound.jpg|thumb|right|Ultrasound image showing a Stener lesion]]
-* [[Ulnar collateral ligament]]
+==Treatment==
+Surgical intervention is typically required to correct a Stener lesion. The procedure involves relocating the displaced ligament and securing it in its anatomical position, often using suture anchors. Postoperative rehabilitation is crucial for restoring function and strength.
+==Prognosis==
+With appropriate surgical treatment and rehabilitation, most patients regain full function of the [[thumb]]. However, delayed treatment can lead to chronic instability and arthritis.
+==Related pages==
+* [[Ulnar collateral ligament injury of the thumb]]
 * [[Metacarpophalangeal joint]]
 * [[Adductor pollicis muscle]]
 [[Category:Orthopedic injuries]]
-[[Category:Hand disorders]]
+[[Category:Hand injuries]]
-[[Category:Sports injuries]]
-{{stub}}