Reconstruction after chronic extensor pollicis longus ruptures: a new technique.

Different types of secondary reconstruction of extensor pollicis longus tendon injuries have been reported, with repair using the extensor indicis proprius being the gold standard. This technique, however, may decrease extension strength and independent extension of the index finger. We presumed repair with the accessory abductor pollicis longus would achieve functional motion of the thumb and avoid donor site morbidity. We retrospectively report the results for 11 consecutive patients who had repair with the accessory abductor pollicis longus and were followed prospectively for a minimum of 2 years. Study-specific outcome measures were used to assess function in activities of daily living, pain, and patient satisfaction. According to the score described by Geld-macher et al, good or excellent results were achieved in all cases. Mean abduction deficit of the thumb was 10 degrees compared with the uninjured side. Using a 0- to 10-point visual analog scale self-reporting questionnaire, patients obtained mean results of 7.9 points for pain, 7.5 points for activities of daily living, and 7.6 points for patient satisfaction. We recommend the accessory abductor pollicis longus as an alternative for extensor pollicis longus tendon repair.