Background
Sprains and dislocations of the metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joint of the finger are relatively rare due to the protected position of this joint in the hand.
Injuries to the MCP joint of the thumb are more common, although these usually consist of collateral ligament injuries rather than dorsal or palmar dislocations.
MCP joint dislocation is seen in the image below.
Metacarpophalangeal joint dislocation of the small finger. Posteroanterior radiograph demonstrates loss of joint space.
For patient education resources, see the Bone, Joint, and Muscle Center and Breaks, Fractures, and Dislocations Center, as well as Finger Dislocation, Broken Finger, and Sprains and Strains.