ABSTRACT
The volar plate is a thickened portion of the joint capsule on the volar aspect and is a static stabilizer against hyperextension forces. Disruption will lead to chronic instabilities if it is not allowed to heal in its proper anatomic position. The collateral ligaments afford medial and lateral stability and are at maximal tautness at 70° exion for the metacarpophalangeal (MCP), 30° for the proximal interphalangeal (PIP), and 15° for the DIP. When the hand is immobilized for any length of time, the collateral ligaments will contract; therefore, these joints should be immobilized, exed at the above angles (collaterals maximally lengthened) to prevent permanent contractures. When describing these collaterals for orientation, one can describe them as the radial or ulnar collateral.
