Volar Plate

Description

The volar plates at the proximal interphalangeal joint. DIPJ, distal interphalangeal joint; MCPJ, metacarpophalangeal joint; MP, mid-phalanx; PIPJ, proximal interphalangeal joint; PP, proximal phalanx.

Illustration of the volar plate

Name

• Volar Plate of the Hand
• PIPJ Volar Plate
• Palmar Plate
• Volar Plate Ligament
• Volar Fibrocartilaginous Plate
• PIP Joint Volar Plate
• MCP Volar Plate
• Digital Volar Plate
• Volar Capsular Plate

Anatomy

• Thick fibrocartilaginous structure located on the volar aspect of the MCP and interphalangeal joints
• Firmly attached to the base of the distal phalanx or middle phalanx depending on the joint
• More loosely attached proximally to allow normal joint motion
• Reinforced by collateral ligaments and surrounding joint capsule
• Composed of dense collagen and fibrocartilage to resist compressive and tensile forces

Function

• Prevents excessive hyperextension of the finger joints
• Contributes to overall joint stability during gripping and pinch activities
• Helps guide normal joint biomechanics during flexion and extension
• Protects the articular cartilage from shear stress
• Acts as a secondary stabilizer against lateral deviation and dislocation

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Clinical Significance

• Proximal Interphalangeal Joint Dislocation
• Volar Plate Injury
• Finger hyperextension injuries

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See Also

• Finger Pain Main
• Hand And Wrist Anatomy
• Physical Exam Hand

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