[Treatment of a ruptured extensor policis longus tendon by extensor carpi radialis longus transfer].

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY

Two tendons, i.e., the extensor indicis proprius (EIP) and the extensor carpi radialis longus (ECRL), are commonly used to reconstruct the function of a ruptured extensor pollicis longus (EPL) tendon. We reviewed a group of patients with EPL ruptures treated by ECRL tendon transfer to the EPL tendon, which was the method of choice. The aim was to evaluate the results and to assess the effect of ECRL detachment on hand function.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Twenty patients were treated surgically for a subcutaneous rupture of the EPL tendon between 2003 and 2007. Each patient was examined at 2 years after surgery. The range of motion (ROM) of both the injured and the contralateral hand was recorded and evaluated with a modified Geldmacher scoring system; a response to the DASH questionnaire was obtained. The mean follow-up was 24 months (19-31 months).

RESULTS

For the ROM of the operated hand, the mean Total Active Motion (TAM) of 98.75 degrees (60-140, SD 22.74) was calculated. The mean extension lag at the interphalangeal (IP) joint was 5.42 degrees (0-25, SD 8.77) and the mean IP flexion was 65.8 degrees (40-80, SD 13.2). In order to evaluate body side differences, the ROM of the contralateral thumb was recorded. The values were as follows: mean TAM, 141.3 degrees (115-190, SD 20.43); mean IP extension lag, 0 degrees (0-0, SD 0); mean IP flexion, 68.8 degrees (50-80, SD 9.6).

DISCUSSION

The extension lag at the IP joint was detected in both the operated and the contralateral hands. The patients examined at a longer interval after surgery showed an increase in extension lag. This may have been caused by undesired adaptation of the donor muscle, the presence of adhesions or suture loosening.

CONCLUSIONS

The results showed increased adaptation of thumb motion to the extension lag at the IP joint, which had a mild effect on the patient's hand function. The difference in wrist extension between the operated and the contralateral hand corresponded to the pre-operative condition.