Gamekeeper’s (Skier) Thumb

Question 1

What causes gamekeepers thumb?

Answer 1

1. Acute (after fall)
2. Or a chronic hyper abduction injury
   *will be a sprain of the UCL of the thumb = instability of the thumb

Question 2

What are the clinical manifestations of a gamekeeper’s thumb?

Answer 2

1. Thumb is far away from other digits (especially with vagus stress) pulling the thumb away from the hand
2. MCP tenderness
3. Weakness in pinch strength
   +/- fracture at base of proximal phalanx

Question 3

What is the management of gamekeepers thumb?

Answer 3

1. Thumb spica (can only move IP joint)
   *refer to ortho/hand surgeon
2. Complete rupture = surgical repair