The volar plate is a fibrocartilaginous band that strengthens the volar aspect of the joint capsule of the PIP and DIP joints. A volar plate fracture is an avulsion fracture of its distal attachment at the PIP joint (base of the middle phalanx). It is a hyperextension injury; the PIP joint may dislocate if there is enough force. The fracture is managed non-operatively if the avulsion fracture comprises less than 20 – 40% of the articular surface.
Reference:
1. Manaster BJ et al. Musculoskeletal Imaging: The Requisites, 3rd edition. Mosby Elsevier 2007
2. Wheeless’ Textbook of Orthopaedics online
Credit: Dr Donna D’Souza
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