Failed Extensor Indicis Proprius Tendon Transfer for Extensor Pollicis Longus Tendon Rupture after Distal Radial Fracture

ABSTRACT

Open reduction and internal fixation using volar plating for the treatment of distal radial fractures (DRFs) is becoming an increasingly popular method. Tenosynovitis of extensor tendons causes delayed extensor pollicis longus (EPL) tendon rupture which known as complication following screw penetration of the dorsal cortex after volar plating for DRFs. As the reconstructive procedure for a closed ruptured EPL tendon in minimal displaced DRF, extensor indicis proprius (EIP) transfer is widely used. However, tendon injuries of the fourth compartment, which includes the extensor digitorum communis or EIP, can be caused by screw irritation after volar plating for DRFs. We encountered a rare case of failed EIP tendon transfer for delayed EPL tendon rupture after volar plating for a DRF. Because the EIP tendon can also be damaged by screw penetration, care must be taken to use EIP tendon for treatment of delayed EPL rupture after volar plating for DRFs.