A CLINICAL CASE REPORT: DELAYED RUPTURE OF THE EXTENSOR POLLICIS LONGUS TENDON FOLLOWING MINIMALLY DISPLACED DISTAL RADIUS FRACTURE
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Abstract
Objectives: To present two clinical cases of extensor pollicis longus (EPL) tendon secondary to distal radius fractures, frequently occurring in cases with minimally displaced fractures; thereby, dicussing the pathophysiology, surgical management stratergies, and supplementing clinical data to the existing literature on complication of these cases. Methods:This report is a case description of two patients with late EPL tendon rupture following minimally displaced distal radius fractures diagnosed and managed at Viet Duc Friendship Hospital. The diagnosis in both cases was confirmed based on clinical examination, ultrasonography, and X-ray imaging. Results: The surgical management involved autologous palmaris longus tendon grafting, with the tendon ends being coapted using the Pulvertaft weave technique. Postoperative evaluation at 10 months using the Gelmacher wrist score demonstrated favorable outcomes. The thumb regained full range of motion, with grip strength and pinch strength achieving 90% compared to the contralateral, uninjured side. Conclusion: EPL tendon rupture can occur after minimally displaced distal radius fractures, often due to mechanical impingement and ischemia within the tendon sheath. Autologus tendon grafting presents a promising and effective treatment option. Careful follow-up of distal radius fractures should be monitored within the first three months for the early detection of tendon injury.
Keywords
Extensor pollicis longus tendon rupture, Autologous tendon grafting, Distal radius fracture
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References
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