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An unusual case of ulnar collateral ligament avulsion in association with carpometacarpal dislocation of thumb is described. Symptoms and deformity caused by dislocation can mask the presence of injuries such as damage to the ulnar collateral ligament of thumb. This may lead to long term disability. A high index of suspicion and good clinical examination allows correct diagnosis and management of these uncommon injuries leading to a good clinical outcome.

We report a patient with a severe axial–radial–ulnar (ARU) fracture dislocation of the carpus, involving multiple intermetacarpal dislocations as well as divergent carpometacarpal dislocations involving the index, long, ring and small fingers and peritrapezoid and scaphotrapezial dislocations. She also had a degloving injury involving the dorsal hand. Emergent debridement followed by open reduction and internal fixation of all injuries was performed, followed by soft tissue management. At 6-year follow-up, the patient had adequate active range of motion with the ability to make a full fist and was able to use her wrist and hand for most activities of daily living. Disabilities of the arm, shoulder and hand (DASH) score was 47.5. Michigan hand outcomes questionnaire (MHQ) score was 66.8. Mayo wrist score was 65. Patient-rated wrist evaluation (PRWE) score was 42. Severe ARU fracture dislocations of the carpus can result in adequate functional recovery on long-term follow-up.

Level of Evidence: Level V (Therapeutic)