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Semin Musculoskelet Radiol 2021; 25(02): 346-354
DOI: 10.1055/s-0041-1730397
Review Article

Thumb Injuries and Instabilities. Part 1: Anatomy, Kinesiology, and Imaging Techniques of the Thumb

Alain G. Blum
1   Guilloz Imaging Department, CHRU of Nancy, University of Lorraine, Nancy, France
2   Unité INSERM U1254 Imagerie Adaptative Diagnostique et Interventionnelle (IADI), CHRU of Nancy, Vandœuvre-lès-Nancy, France
,
Marnix T. van Holsbeeck
3   Musculoskeletal Radiology, Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit, Michigan
,
Stefano Bianchi
4   CIM SA, Cabinet d'imagerie Médicale, Geneva, Switzerland
5   Service de Radiologie, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Genève, Geneva, Switzerland
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Abstract

The unique anatomical characteristics of the thumb offer a broad range of motion and the ability to oppose thumb and finger, an essential function for grasping. The motor function of the thumb and its orientation make it particularly vulnerable to trauma. Pathologic lesions encountered in this joint are varied, and imaging techniques play a crucial role in injury detection and characterization. Despite advances in diagnostic accuracy, acute thumb injuries pose a challenge for the radiologist. The complex and delicate anatomy requires meticulous and technically flawless image acquisition. Standard radiography and ultrasonography are currently the most frequently used imaging techniques. Computed tomography is most often indicated for complex fractures and dislocations, and magnetic resonance imaging may be useful in equivocal cases. In this article, we present the relevant anatomy and imaging techniques of the thumb.

Keywords

thumb - metacarpophalangeal joint - trapeziometacarpal joint - ulnar collateral ligament - sesamoid bone


Publication History

Article published online:
09 August 2021

© 2021. Thieme. All rights reserved.

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