Extensor Carpi Ulnaris Subluxation.

Hand Clin · Nov 2021 · Review

Byrd JN, Sasor SE, Chung KC

Section of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Michigan Medical School

Hand & Upper Extremity

SUMMARY — THE REDUCTIONThis article reviews diagnosis of extensor carpi ulnaris tendon subluxation, a subsheath injury causing wrist pain and instability, best confirmed with ultrasound and treated with retinaculum flap repair.
Abstract, as published

Extensor carpi ulnaris tendon subluxation can be a challenging diagnosis as a cause of wrist pain. The tendon is stabilized by a tough subsheath. This subsheath is vulnerable to tears in acute wrist movements, especially those combining supination, flexion, and ulnar deviation. The patient presenting acutely may experience swelling, tenderness, and pain. In a chronic setting, the complaint is often an unstable wrist. The diagnosis can be made with a thorough examination, and ultrasonography can be used to evaluate the dynamics of the tendon. Surgical repair with a flap of extensor retinaculum to re-create the tendon's stabilizing subsheath is recommended.

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