Radiologic anatomy of the metacarpophalangeal joints II to V

Abstract

The metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joints II to V of 21 hands were examined radiologically and arthrographically. Different recesses of the joint cavity were demonstrated both radiologically and macroscopically, with a dominating dorsal recess. The existing forms of the dorsal recess were one-tailed, two-tailed, three-tailed, symmetric and cap-like. Additionally, a palmar recess was found in the specimens examined, which presented as a small protrusion of the capsule and lay between the metacarpal head and the palmar plate. Furthermore, a distal recess was filled and unfolded in almost all the cases. Lateral recesses were found in the radial and ulnar directions beneath the collateral ligaments. The dorsal recess, due to its ability to collect fluid, is of clinical importance in pathologic processes causing effusions, while the clinical importance of the lateral recesses lie in their proximity to the stabilizing collateral ligaments of the metacarpophalangeal joints. The above mentioned recesses were seen as normal formations of the MCP joints and should therefore be taken into account in pathologic processes in this area.