What is a Stener lesion?

A Stener lesion occurs when a complete distal, thumb ulnar collateral ligament tear results in the interposition of the aponeurosis of the adductor pollicis muscle between the metacarpophalangeal joint and torn ligament.

Does Stener lesion require surgery?

However, presence of a Stener lesion is a distinct, anatomic lesion that requires surgical correction. In cases of a complete, distal, thumb UCL tear, the aponeurosis of the adductor pollicis muscle can be interposed between the MCP of the joint and torn ligament.

How is a Stener lesion diagnosed?

How to diagnose a stener lesion. Generally, diagnosis is based on a history of a fall. Then, we perform a careful examination to confirm a torn ulnar collateral ligament and rule out other problems such as a fracture. Applying stress to the thumb demonstrates increased gaping compared to the normal side.

What is a stener?

A Stener lesion is a complete tear of the ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) from the thumb proximal phalanx at the level of the metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joint that is displaced superficial to the adductor pollicis aponeurosis, leading to interposition of the aponeurosis between the UCL and the MCP joint.

How long does it take to recover from thumb ligament surgery?

With traditional surgery, the ligament is sutured, and the thumb is immobilized in a cast for four to six weeks. “Athletes particularly dislike being in casts, and on top of that they can’t return to play for sometimes up to 10-12 weeks,” Shin notes. Internal brace augmentation cuts that time in half or less.

Does a torn thumb ligament require surgery?

If the thumb ligaments are only partially torn, they usually heal without surgery. Your thumb will be immobilized for four to six weeks in a special cast, called a thumb spica cast. Patients who are treated nonsurgically with a thumb spica cast can start our Physical Therapy program when the cast is removed.

How long does it take for thumb bone to heal?

Recovering from a broken finger or thumb A broken finger or thumb usually heals within 6 to 8 weeks, but it can take longer. It may be 3 to 4 months before full strength returns to your hand. Once it’s healed, use your finger or thumb as normal.

How do you treat skier’s thumb?

Skier’s Thumb Treatment Self-Care at Home Apply ice to the thumb for 35 minutes at a time, up to 4 times per day. Do not apply ice directly to your skin. Continue to use ice until the pain stops. (You should see your doctor as soon as possible after the injury and then follow a doctor’s directions for ice therapy.)

What is the recovery time for thumb ligament surgery?

Do thumb fractures need surgery?

You may need surgery to treat the thumb fracture, depending on the location of the break, the alignment of the broken bone, and the amount of movement between the fragments. Your surgeon may use one of several operative fixation techniques to realign the bone fragments.

How long is recovery from UCL surgery?

Rehabilitation from Tommy John surgery usually takes about a year. In some cases, up to 2 years are needed for athletes to return to their previous level of ability. Other types of UCL surgery may not need this much rehabilitation.

What does skier’s thumb look like?

Skier’s Thumb Symptoms Swelling of your thumb. Inability to grasp or weakness of grasp between your thumb and index finger. Tenderness to the touch along the index finger side of your thumb. Blue or black discoloration of the skin over the thumb.