Volar plate fractures are the result of hyperextension. This injury typically involve the proximal interphalangeal joint of the fingers. At this location, the volar plate (a dense fibrous band) forms a portion of the capsule. Typically, there is a small fragment of bone avulsed from the volar aspect of the base of the proximal phalanx. If not repaired, this can lead to instability. A Wilson fracture refers to a volar plate injury to the middle phalanx of a finger.

A	Lateral radiograph of the hand. This shows an avulsion fracture of the base of the middle phalanx of the third digit.

Links to online textbooks:

• Wheeless' Orthopedics: discussion of PIP dorsal dislocations

Links to online cases:

• The Physician and Sports Medicine
• Emedicine.com

References:

• Palmer RE: Joint injuries of the hand in athletes Clin Sports Med. 1998 Jul;17(3):513-31.           [See related articles]
• Nance EP Jr, Kaye JJ, Milek MA: Volar plate fractures Radiology. 1979 Oct;133(1):61-4.           [See related articles]