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Finger Injuries in Extreme Rock Climbers

Assessment of High-Resolution Ultrasonography

Andrea Klauser, MD^*,, Gerd Bodner, MD^*, Ferdinand Frauscher, MD^*, Markus Gabl, MD and Dieter Zur Nedden, MD^*

^* Department of Radiology, University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
Department of Traumatology, University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria

Address correspondence and reprint requests to Andrea Klauser, MD, Department of Radiology II, University Hospital of Innsbruck, Anichstrasse 35, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria

Dynamic high-resolution ultrasonography findings obtained in 34 extreme rock climbers with finger injuries were compared with those in 20 healthy volunteers. Thicknesses of the flexor tendon and A-2 flexor tendon pulley system were measured at the base of the proximal phalanx. The distance between the tendon and phalanx was evaluated with the finger in extension and in forced flexion as a measure of bowstringing. Gliding ability of the flexor tendons was assessed during active and passive motion. Compared with healthy volunteers, climbers showed a significantly increased thickness of the flexor tendons and the flexor tendon pulley system but no impairment of the gliding mechanism. Only in climbers did the distance between tendon and phalanx increase from 0.14 cm (±0.07) during extension to 0.30 cm (±0.09) during forced flexion. In three climbers with complete A-2 pulley ruptures this distance was up to 0.51 cm (±0.15) during forced flexion. Clinically unsuspected synovial cysts, thickened joint capsules, fibrous tissue, or fluid collection were found only in climbers. We concluded that dynamic ultrasonography is a valuable tool for accurate assessment of early changes in "climber’s finger." It provides useful information, especially in cases where clinical evaluation is difficult, and should be performed to select appropriate therapeutic management.

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