According to the Verdan classification of extensor tendon injuries, a laceration of the extensor tendon directly over the dorsum of the index metacarpophalangeal joint lies in which zone?

• A Zone II
• B Zone IV
• C Zone VII
• D Zone V ✓

Explanation

Verdan divided the extensor surface into eight zones using the joints as landmarks, with odd-numbered zones over joints: zone I over the distal interphalangeal joint, III over the proximal interphalangeal joint, V over the metacarpophalangeal joint, and VII at the wrist. Even zones lie over phalangeal and metacarpal shafts. A laceration over the knuckle is therefore zone V, the classic site of human bite fight-bite extensor injuries.

Reference: Green's Operative Hand Surgery, 7th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.