Use of volar plate for reconstructing the radial collateral ligament after metacarpophalangeal arthroplasty of fingers in rheumatoid arthritis: surgical technique.

We present a technique for reconstructing the radial collateral ligament using the volar plate after metacarpophalangeal arthroplasty of fingers in rheumatoid arthritis. This technique is indicated when the original collateral ligament is very attenuated and cannot be directly imbricated. The technique is surgically simple, has the advantage of using locally available tissue, and has produced results that are both clinically and radiologically satisfactory.