RESUMEN
A closed spontaneous rupture of the extensor hallucis longus (EHL) tendon is an infrequent yet challenging clinical occurrence, typically associated with systemic conditions (diabetes mellitus or rheumatoid arthritis). A closed EHL rupture, however, exists but is only reported as scattered cases in the literature. This article presents a unique case of a traumatic EHL tendon rupture in a patient without underlying predisposing factors. A 66-year-old woman, previously healthy, presented with an inability to dorsiflex her big toe following trauma, showcasing the clinical triad of pain, edema, and deficit in big toe extension. Magnetic resonance imaging confirmed a 5.9 cm EHL tendon gap that was treated by primary end-to-end repair of the ruptured tendon. The aim of this case report is to provide an overview of the literature available concerning the classification and treatment of EHL rupture and to assist in the early diagnosis and treatment of this rare condition.
RESUMEN
Dorsal dislocation of the toes is an infrequent injury that can result in severe pain and deformity. Timely diagnosis and appropriate management are paramount for optimizing patient outcomes. This case report illustrates a 53-year-old male patient who suffered dorsal dislocation of the first and second metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joints due to a crush injury. We present the clinical manifestation, radiographic findings, and management approach for this unique isolated first and second ray MTP joint dorsal dislocation, without any associated fractures. This case report underscores several critical observations: firstly, hallux dorsal dislocation can potentially coincide with other injuries; secondly, it can stem from crushing trauma to the big toe; and thirdly, successful closed reduction, when followed by effective immobilization and early rehabilitation, can yield outstanding outcomes. Additionally, the report emphasizes the importance of pursuing another closed reduction attempt under general anesthesia, if the initial attempt in the emergency room proves unsuccessful, before contemplating open reduction.
RESUMEN
Accurate differentiation between epidural hematomas and lumbar disc extrusion is essential due to the potential overlap in clinical presentations. We present a case report highlighting a significant challenge in which a massive lumbar disc extrusion was mistaken for an epidural hematoma. This is a case report of a 38-year-old male patient who developed cauda equina syndrome four days after experiencing an audible cracking in the lower back during weightlifting activity. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was inconclusive, unable to distinguish between an extruded nucleus pulposus and a spinal epidural hematoma. Subsequently, an urgent operation revealed a large herniated disc at the L4-L5 level, ruling out any hematoma. The patient's post-operative follow-up showed significant improvement, with almost complete recovery of motor and sensory functions. This case emphasizes the challenges faced when distinguishing between epidural hematomas and lumbar disc herniations, particularly on MRI. The lumbar disc herniation's substantial size, cranial and caudal migration on multiple levels, and signal intensity contributed to the misdiagnosis, underscoring the importance of careful interpretation and awareness of such complexities.
