Abductor Pollicis Longus Tendon Research Articles

Relationship to the superficial radial nerve and anatomic variations of the first extensor compartment in Thai population: a basis for successful de Quervain tenosynovitis treatment.

Knowledge of the superficial radial nerve (SRN) relationship and anatomic variations of the first extensor compartment (1st EC) will contribute to a better outcome of de Quervain tenosynovitis treatment. We dissected 87 embalmed cadaveric wrists to determine the relationship of the SRN, the 1st EC length, distance from the proximal and distal 1st EC borders to radial styloid process (RSP), abductor pollicis longus (APL) and extensor pollicis brevis (EPB) tendon slip numbers, and the presence of septum. Our results revealed SRN crossing over the 1st EC in 59.5%. The lateral branch of the superficial radial nerve to the 1st EC midline in most cases (61.9%) except for one specimen, where lateral antebrachial cutaneous nerve was the closest. Distances from proximal and distal 1st EC borders to the RSP were 19.7±4.1 mm and 7.6±1.8 mm, respectively. Extensor retinaculum (ER) width over 1st EC (1st EC length) was 14.8±3.2 mm. Complete and incomplete septa were found in 17.2%, and 42.5%, respectively. The most frequent APL tendon slip number in the compartment was two in overall 47 specimens (54.0%). Almost all compartments (85 specimens; 97.7%) contained one EPB tendon slip. We detected bilateral EPB absence in one cadaver. Moreover, we recorded a tendon slip from extensor pollicis longus traveling into 1st EC bilaterally in one cadaver and observed the EPB muscle belly extension into 1st EC in 9 wrists. Awareness of 1st EC anatomic variations would be essential for successful surgical and nonsurgical outcomes.

Anatomic location of the first dorsal extensor compartment for surgical De-Quervain's tenosynovitis release: A cadaveric study.

De-Quervain's tenosynovitis is a disorder arising from the compression and irritation of the first dorsal extensor compartment of the wrist. Patients who fail conservative treatment modalities are candidates for surgical release. However, risks with surgery include damage to the superficial radial nerve and an incomplete release due to inadequate dissection. Currently, there is a paucity of literature demonstrating the exact anatomic location of the first dorsal extensor compartment in reference to surface anatomy. Thus, this cadaveric study was performed to determine the exact location of the first extensor compartment and to devise a reliable surgical incision to prevent complications. To describe the location of the first dorsal compartment in relation to bony surface landmarks to create replicable surgical incisions. Six cadaveric forearms, including four left and two right forearm specimens were dissected. Dissections were performed by a single fellowship trained upper extremity orthopaedic surgeon. Distance of the first dorsal compartment from landmarks such as Lister's tubercle, the wrist crease, and the radial styloid were calculated. Other variables studied included the presence of the superficial radial nerve overlying the first dorsal compartment, additional compartment sub-sheaths, number of abductor pollicis longus (APL) tendon slips, and the presence of a pseudo-retinaculum. Distance from the radial most aspect of the wrist crease to the extensor retinaculum was 5.14 mm ± 0.80 mm. The distance from Lister's tubercle to the distal aspect of the extensor retinaculum was 13.37 mm ± 2.94 mm. Lister's tubercle to the start of the first dorsal compartment was 18.43 mm ± 2.01 mm. The radial styloid to the initial aspect of the extensor retinaculum measured 2.98 mm ± 0.99 mm. The retinaculum length longitudinally on average was 26.82 mm ± 3.34 mm. Four cadaveric forearms had separate extensor pollicis brevis compartments. The average number of APL tendon slips was three. A pseudo-retinaculum was present in four cadavers. Two cadavers had a superficial radial nerve that crossed over the first dorsal compartment and retinaculum proximally (7.03 mm and 13.36 mm). An incision that measures 3 mm proximal from the radial styloid, 2 cm radial from Lister's tubercle, and 5 mm proximal from the radial wrist crease will safely place surgeons at the first dorsal compartment.

De Quervain tendinitis after total trapeziometacarpal joint arthroplasty: Biomechanical evaluation of tendon excursion in the first extensor tendon compartment

De Quervain’s tenosynovitis is the most common complication after total trapeziometacarpal joint replacement. Etiology is unclear. Implantation of a ball-in-socket implant changes the biomechanics of the normal trapeziometacarpal saddle joint and increases its range of motion. The present study demonstrates that this procedure also significantly increases excursion of the abductor pollicis longus and extensor pollicis brevis tendons during thumb flexion-extension, and not during thumb abduction-adduction. Increased tendon gliding under the retinaculum of the first extensor tendon compartment could predispose to the development frictional tenosynovitis and play a role in the development of de Quervain’s syndrome after total trapeziometacarpal joint replacement. Level of evidenceNot applicable (laboratory study).

Rhizarthrosis: Resection Arthroplasty versus Resection Suspension Arthroplasty - Still the Gold Standard?

Rhizarthrosis is one of the most common arthritic changes in the hand, which has led to the development of a large number of surgical methods in recent years. In addition to the traditional resection arthroplasty with tendon suspension or interposition, if needed, thumb saddle joint prostheses are being used more and more frequently. However, these are not an option for all patients such as those with severe osteoporosis, severe nickel allergy, insufficient height of the trapezium or STT osteoarthritis. This study examined whether the traditional surgical methods continue to have their "right to exist" or whether they will be replaced by prostheses. In a retrospective study with prospective data collection, 48 hands of 45 patients diagnosed with rhizarthrosis in stages II and III according to Eaton and Littler were clinically examined 2.5 years after resection arthroplasty/resection-suspension-interposition arthroplasty using flexor carpi radialis (FCR) or abductor pollicis longus (APL) tendon strips in the years 2015-2018. The postoperative outcome was assessed using mobility, grip strength, two-point discrimination, postoperative satisfaction with regard to pain and resilience, as well as the DASH and MHQ questionnaires. There were no significant differences in surgery duration, inability to work, time to full weight-bearing, pain, satisfaction, grip strength and mobility. Regardless of the surgical method used, patients achieved an almost free range of motion in the thumb and wrist as well as age-appropriate hand strength. Pain at rest was rare; 48% were pain-free during exercise. The DASH questionnaire scored 20.2, 13.9 and 22.1 points and the MHQ scored 76.3, 79.3 and 79.4 points. Hence, the traditional surgical techniques showed good postoperative results with high patient satisfaction. "Newer procedures" such as endoprosthesis offer promising results in terms of faster regeneration times. However, this is offset by a longer surgery time and higher material costs, which means that resection arthroplasty represents a long-established procedure with a low potential for complications and a lower revision rate and should continue to be used, especially if there are relative contraindications to an endoprosthesis.

The place of B-mode ultrasonography, shear-wave elastography, and superb microvascular imaging in the diagnosis of De Quervain tenosynovitis.

Superb microvascular imaging (SMI) and Shear wave elastography (SWE) are newly developed ultrasonographic diagnostic tools used to support the diagnosis of De Quervain tenosynovitis (DQT). The aim of this study was to examine the capacity to differentiate between the wrist with DQT and the healthy wrist, as well as the potential for predicting the disease's severity using B-mode ultrasonography, SWE, and SMI. A total of 19 cases with unilateral clinical DQT were included in the prospective study. The wrists of these cases without DQT clinic constituted the control group. The SWE parameters of m/s and kPa cutoff values were ≤5.225 and ≤ 77.65, respectively, in the wrists with DQT compared to the wrists not diagnosed with DQT (p < 0.001). Regarding SMI findings no microvascularity was determined in the abductor pollicis longus (APL) and extensor pollicis brevis (EPB) tendon sheaths of the wrists without DQT, and a significant increase was observed in the degree of microvascularity as the clinical severity of DQT increased. SWE results can differentiate between the presence and absence of DQT. SMI grading of the APL and EPB tendon sheaths may be helpful to the clinician in deciding the clinical severity of DQT.

Prevalence, evaluation, and clinical implications of a reticular tunnel formed by uncharacteristic distal fibers of the abductor pollicis longus

IntroductionVariations in muscles of the pollex are common, and some can elicit significant clinical implications. The abductor pollicis longus (APL) frequently exhibits non-typical morphologies; however, descriptions of uncharacteristic distal fibers from APL (APLudf) that form a reticular tunnel around the tendons of extensor carpi radialis longus (ECRL) and brevis (ECRB) are scarce in current literature. The objective of this study is to investigate the prevalence of APLudf with concurrent report of in situ and cross-sectional gross imaging. MethodsThe distal aspect of 110 APL muscles was examined for APLudf and reticular tunnel formation. Reticular tunnel length was measured over the long axis of the underlying ECRL tendon, and APLudf pennation angle was recorded. Characteristic APL and APLudf examples were photographed in situ, and one example of APLudf was cross-sectioned to show the bony attachment of the atypical fibers in relation to contiguous anatomy. A unique finding of an APLudf accessory tendon inserting onto an accessory abductor pollicis brevis muscle was removed, splayed, and photographed. ResultsAPLudf were present in 65 (59.1%) of upper limbs. The APLudf originated from a free origin over the ECRL and ECRB tendons and a fixed origin from the lateral margin of the distal radius and inserted onto the main APL tendon or an accessory tendon, creating a distinct reticular tunnel around the ECRL and ECRL with a mean length of 20.25 ± 5.55 mm (range = 11.09 mm–36.09 mm) and 12.99° ± 1.44° pennation. All APL muscles displayed one main tendon and at least one accessory tendon which originated solely from APLudf on 43 (39.1%) of the specimens. ConclusionsThe present study suggests the prevalence of APLudf is 59.1% and often occurs bilaterally. The restriction of intersecting movements within the APLudf reticular tunnel could cause ECRL and ECRB tendon inflammation (i.e., intersection syndrome), directly affect respective functions (e.g., radial extension of the wrist, abduction and extension of the thumb), and complicate surgical management in the region. This report may inform educators and healthcare providers when deliberating diagnosis, treatment, and healing of associated forearm, wrist, and pollex conditions.

Insights with consensus on Abductor Pollicis Longus from the Central Indian population at Nagpur, Maharashtra.

The anatomical snuff box is bounded laterally by the Abductor pollicis longus (APL) and the Extensor pollicis brevis (EPB) tendons. The variation in insertion of extensor tendons at the forearm and wrist is an interesting phenomenon. Therefore, a sound knowledge of such variations in extensor tendons is essential to know the consequence of tendon injury during implementation of its repair. Hence, we studied 48 formaldehyde fixed forearms of Indian-origin cadavers with age groups ranging from 33 to 67 years from the Central Indian population at Nagpur, Maharashtra, India. Variation in the insertion of APL was checked by tracing the tendon till its insertion. APL muscle was found with single tendon in 20 forearms, double in 9, triple in 8 and quadruple in 5 and five (maximum) in 6 forearms. In 93% (n=45), the APL tendon was inserted into the first metacarpal bone and in 7% (n=03), it was inserted into the trapezium bone. No variation was noted in the EPB tendon. Data shows that there are accessory slips in the APL tendon, differing from the standard description. Thus, data provides awareness of such potential variation among operating surgeons for better management of the diseased during dissection.

Tenoplasty in suspension with or without tendon interposition: A prospective randomized study in the treatment of advanced thumb carpometacarpal arthritis

IntroductionThe aim of this prospective and randomized study is to analyze and compare the outcomes of two surgical techniques for trapeziometacarpal joint osteoarthritis (Eaton-Littler grade III and IV). Materials and methods52 consecutive patients underwent surgical intervention by two different surgical techniques and checked for subjective outcomes (DASH, NPRS), objective outcomes (ROM, opposition test, grinding test, pulp pinch, hand grip) and radiographic outcomes. Surgical time was calculated. Results26 patients underwent suspension arthroplasty using abductor pollicis longus tendon interposition (Ceruso procedure) and 26 patients underwent arthroplasty using suspension tenoplasty of the flexor radialis carpi (Altissimi procedure). Both techniques were performed by a single surgeon and showed good and satisfactory results, with best outcome reported in Altissimi procedure regarding DASH and ROM (p = 0.011 and p = 0.012, respectively), with reduced surgical time (about 6 min less, p = 0.03). The proximal shift between scaphoid and the base of first metacarpal did not influence the final results of the cases treated. ConclusionThis study provides evidence that trapeziectomy in combination with both tendon suspension arthroplasty and tendon interposition are two surgical procedures useful to solve advanced basal joint arthritis. Patients who underwent suspension tenoplasty without tendon interposition seemed to be generally more satisfied with significantly better symptomatic and functional outcomes.

Anatomical variations in the first dorsal compartment of the wrist: meta-analysis.

The first dorsal compartment of the wrist includes tendons of abductor pollicis longus (APL) and extensor pollicis brevis (EPB). However, many studies have showed multiple anatomical variations including anomalies in the number of both APL and EPB tendons and presence of intercompartmental fibro-osseous septum. Unfortunately, studies describing those variations are not consistent, hence, the aim of this study was to provide most accurate data about these anatomical variations in the population, using systematic review and meta-analysis. For this purpose, PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Embase and a number of minor online libraries were searched. Articles which included exact data about the number of APL or EPB tendons or a presence of intercompartmental septum were qualified for a more precise evaluation. Therefore, out of 1629 studies initially evaluated, 68 were finally included in this meta-analysis. We followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. A total of 5229 studied wrists have been included in this study. Double APL and single EPB are the most common variations of tendons in the first dorsal compartment, both in cadavers and patients with de Quervain's disease, with no statistically significant differences between those two groups. Presence of intercompartmental fibro-osseus septum is much more common in patients with de Quervain's disease than in cadavers. Our results should improve the awareness of anatomical variations in the first dorsal compartment, which in turn should have impact on treatment of de Quervain's disease in clinical practice.

Work-Related Risk Factors Contributing to De-Quervain's Tenosynovitis among Carpenters in Punjab

Purpose: De Quervain's Tenosynovitis is inflammation of extensor pollicis brevis and abductor pollicis longus tendons that run from the side of the wrist to the base of the thumb. To see the frequency of De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis and work related risk factors in carpenters of Punjab, Pakistan&#x0D; Methodology: It was a cross-sectional study. Sample size of the research was 492. Study was conducted at the province Punjab, Pakistan. Inclusion criteria of the study were carpenters of age between twenty to fifty years having experience of more than 2 years. Data was collected to the selected population, through convenient sampling technique. Duration of the study was 8 months. Outcome measures of the study were Finkelstein test, Visual analogue scale and a structured questionnaire. The collected data was analyzed by using SPSS version 25.&#x0D; Findings: Out of 492 participants, De-Quervain's Tenosynovitis was found to be present in 46% of carpenters Punjab. 25.6% of the participants had moderate, while 22.3% had extreme discomfort in lower back. 19.91% reported not to have an enough space for work. 55.69% didn’t take adequate breaks while working. 69.91% reported to have no back rest while working, 63% reported not use any wrist support or brace while working and 35.36% reported not to have any proper training for this work.&#x0D; Conclusion: De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis is prevalent in carpenters of Punjab, Pakistan. Work-related discomfort was found in various regions of body including eyes, neck, shoulders, arms, wrist and hand. Contributing work-related risk factors for De Quervain's Tenosynovitis among carpenters encompass insufficient training, absence of wrist support, and inadequate breaks during work.

Prevalence of De-Quervain’s Tenosynovitis in Female Tailors in District Wazirabad

Purpose: De Quervain's tenosynovitis affects the thumb abductors close to the radiostyloid process, causes a painful wrist complaint. When performing particular jobs incorrectly, the wrist and thumb might lead to De Quervain's Tenosynovitis. It is associated with work that necessitates repetitive wrist and thumb motion. Pain, numbness, tingling, burning, stiffness, and exhaustion are a few of the warning signs and symptoms. Complaints include a loss of normal sensation, a restriction in range of motion, and a decline in grip strength. The objective of the study was to determine the prevalence of De-Quervain's Tenosynovitis in female tailors in district Wazirabad.&#x0D; Methodology: Amongst female tailors, a cross-sectional survey was done. Based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 289 participants were chosen through convenient sampling technique. The process was described to the study participants. The degree of the pain was evaluated using the Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS), and an assessment of the illness was made using the Finkelstein test. Both hands were put to use for the test. Pain over the abductor pollicis longus and extensor pollicis brevis tendons at the wrist is a sign of a positive diagnosis. The SPSS program was used to examine the data. Data was presented in for of tables and charts.&#x0D; Findings: De-Quervain's Tenosynovitis was present in 43% of the population overall. When the results of the right and left hands were compared, it was discovered that 33% females had right hand had De Quervain's tenosynovitis and 10% had it in both hands. Sixty of the respondents reported experiencing mild pain, 41 women reported moderate pain, and 23 reported severe pain. This study concluded that the prevalence of De-Quervain’s Tenosynovitis in female tailors is low.&#x0D; Recommendations: The study was grounded in the Cumulative Stress Theory, emphasizing repetitive motion's impact on occupational health. Tailors should receive training on ergonomics, use ergonomic tools, and undergo regular wrist health check-ups. Policy makers must set occupational health standards for tailors, ensuring ergonomic tool usage, and mandate periodic health audits in tailoring establishments

Prevalence of De-Quervain’s Tenosynovitis in Tailors of Multan (Punjab)

Purpose: De Quervain's Tenosynovitis is inflammation of extensor pollicis brevis and abductor pollicis longus tendons that run from the side of the wrist to the base of the thumb. To see the frequency of De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis and work related risk factors in tailors of Multan, Pakistan&#x0D; Methodology: It was a cross-sectional study. Sample size of the research was 246. Study was conducted at the city of Pakistan, Multan. Inclusion criteria of the study were tailors of age between twenty to fifty years having experience of more than 3 years. Data was collected to the selected population, through convenient sampling technique. Duration of the study was 8 months. Outcome measures of the study were Finkelstein test, Visual analogue scale and a structured questionnaire. The collected data was analyzed by using SPSS version 25.&#x0D; Findings: Out of 246 participants, 72.3% were males and 27.6% were females. Prevalence of De Quervain's Tenosynovitis was found to be 64% in tailors of Multan through Finkelstein test. 25.6% of the participants had moderate, while 22.3% had extreme discomfort in lower back. 35.3% reported to have mild discomfort in arms. 52.4% had mild to moderate discomfort in wrist or hand. 19.91% reported not to have an enough space for work. 44.30% did not have adjustable chairs. 69.91% reported to have no back rest while sewing, 63% reported unavailability of foot rest and 64.63% had no arm rest while sewing.&#x0D; Recommendations: De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis is prevalent in tailors of Multan, Pakistan. Work-related discomfort was found in various regions of body including eyes, neck, shoulders, arms, wrist and hand. Chairs with no adjustable height, unavailability of arm and foot rest and no back support were associated work related risk factors in tailors.

Suture suspension sling arthroplasty in thumb carpometacarpal joint arthritis: A case series.

Thumb carpometacarpal (CMC) joint arthritis is the most common condition in older adults and an upper-extremity surgical reconstruction site. Multiple treatments for CMC arthritis have been developed. Among them, suspension sling arthroplasty provides great results without requiring a tendon graft or advanced implants. However, it is rarely used in Indonesia. The modified suture suspension sling arthroplasty technique developed by Arnold Peter C Weiss was performed on three patients with CMC joint arthritis. In this procedure, after trapeziectomy, a nonabsorbable suture is performed to create a hammock between the abductor pollicis longus and flexor carpi radialis tendon to rest the thumb base metacarpal. The rehabilitation protocol was then continued, and the postoperative clinical condition was observed. Three weeks postoperatively, none of the three patients complained of pain. At 3months postoperatively, there were no signs of infection, and all patients continued the rehabilitation protocol. At 6months postoperatively, thumb range of motion was excellent, with no sign of infection and an increased DASH score of <5. Multiple treatments for CMC joint arthritis have been described in the literature but the indications and which treatment provides the best results were unclear. Among the various suspension sling methods, trapeziectomy is important for treating CMC joint arthritis. Suture suspension arthroplasty for treating thumb CMC joint arthritis achieved excellent clinical results and has several advantages, including shorter surgical time, no additional incision, reduced cost, no tendon harvesting, and implant fixation.

Surgical treatment of carpometacarpal thumb arthritis with trapeziectomy and intra-tendon (FCR) suspension with one-loop APL: comparative cohort study

BackgroundOne of the current choices of treatment for Trapeziometacarpal (TMC) joint arthritis is trapeziectomy with ligament reconstruction and tendon interposition arthroplasty. The Ceruso’s technique consists of complete trapezial excision and abductor pollicis longus (APL) tendon suspension. The APL tendon is tied to the flexor carpi radialis (FCR) tendon with two loops, one around it and one inside, and then used as interposition tissue. The purpose of the present study was to compare two different techniques of a trapeziectomy with ligament reconstruction and tendon interposition arthroplasty using the Abductor Pollicis Longus (APL) tendon, which is only Once Looped Around (OLA) versus Once Looped Inside (OLI) the Flexor Carpi Radialis (FCR) tendon.MethodsA single-center, retrospective study (Level of evidence: III) has been conducted on sixty-seven patients older than 55 years (33 OLI, 35 OLA), assessing clinical outcomes for at least 2 years of post-surgery follow-up. The outcomes were to assess and compare surgical outcomes comparing the two groups, in terms of subjective and objective evaluation for both groups at the last follow-up (primary outcome), and at the intermediate follow-ups (three and six months). Complications were also assessed.ResultsThe authors found an improvement in pain, range of motion, and function, with equivalent results for both techniques. No subsidence was observed. FCR tendinitis was significantly reduced with OLI, as well as the need of post-operative physiotherapy.ConclusionsThe one-loop technique allows for reduced surgical exposure, providing excellent suspension and clinical outcomes. Intra FCR loop should be preferred to improve post-surgical recovery.Level of evidenceLevel III study. This is a retrospective cohort study (written according to STROBE guidelines).

Comparison of the Effect of Intralesional Injection of Corticosteroid and Platelet-rich Plasma in Patients with de Quervain’s Tenosynovitis

Background: De Querveins’ tenosynovitis affects the abductor pollicis longus (APL) and extensor pollicis brevis (EPB) tendons in the first dorsal compartment of the wrist. Corticosteroid injection is the mainstay of treatment for those patients who do not respond to conservative management. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is a currently used strategy in the clinical practice to provide a regenerative stimulus for tendon healing. Objective: To evaluate the effects of Platelet-rich plasma in the treatment of DQVD in comparison with corticosteroid (CS) injection. Materials and Methods: The present randomized clinical trial had been conducted in the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), Shahbag, Dhaka. A total of 100 patients with pain and swelling over the radial aspect of the wrist with positive Finkelstein test were randomly allocated into three groups: group A (received platelet-rich plasma injection), group B (received corticosteroid injection) and group C (received conservative management). The severity of pain and functional status of the wrist joint were recorded according to VAS and Mayo’s wrist score both pre-procedurally on day 0 and post-procedurally at the end of 1st, 3rd and 6th month. Results: The mean age of the participants in group A, B and C were 45.6 (±10.4), 46.9 (±11.3) and 42.4 (±6.3) years respectively. In all groups, majority of the study participants were female and housewives. No significant statistical difference was observed among the groups regarding VAS scores and Mayo’s Wrist Scores at baseline. At the end of 6 months, the reduction of pain in group A was significantly lower than group B (p&lt;0.001). Again, at the end of 6 months, the improvement of Mayo’s Wrist Scores in group A group was significantly higher than group B (p&lt;0.001). In group A, 77.8% reduction of pain score was achieved while in group B, 68.4%reduction of pain score was achieved after 6 month of treatment (p&lt;0.001). Conclusions: Platelet-rich plasma provides better functional outcome than corticosteroid in the treatment of de Quervain tenosynovitis. Bangladesh Medical Res Counc Bull 2023; 49(1): 32-38

First extensor compartment morphology and clinical significance: a cadaver series study.

The first extensor compartment of the wrist is a distinctly variable anatomical area. Anatomical variations in this region contribute to the pathophysiology and treatment failure of de Quervain's disease, which is a kind of tenosynovitis that develops in the first extensor compartment of the wrist. We aim to describe the first extensor compartment morphology, to evaluate the septum frequency, location of the septum, and the number of tendons of abductor pollicis longus (APL) and extensor pollicis brevis muscles (EPB). First extensor compartment of 87 wrists of 45 cadavers were dissected. The presence or absence of septum and number of tendon slips of APL and EPB revealed. The proximal and distal widths of the compartments were measured. Septums were detected in 60.9% (n=53) of the wrists. Incomplete (distal) and complete (proximal) septa were present in 35.6% (n=31) and 25.3% (n=22) of the cases. Only 26.4% of the wrists had a single slip of APL tendon. The Remaining had multiple slips. The median inner width of the proximal and distal compartments in all wrists were calculated as in the order of 9.11±1.14 mm and 8.55±1.12 mm. We believe that understanding the anatomy of the first extensor compartment in the Turkish population would be helpful to surgeons, radiologists, and physiotherapists to diagnose and manage de Quervain's disease.

The anatomy of the tendon of abductor pollicis longus and its morphological variations: An anatomical approach emphasizing the clinical relevance

PurposeThe anatomical literature describes the abductor pollicis longus as a muscle with a single tendon inserting on the base of the first metacarpal bone, but investigations have shown that it often exhibits morphological variations. However, methodological approaches used to describe these variations have not been useful in a clinical context. Therefore, the purpose of this investigation was to study and relate such anatomical variations in a clinical context. Basic proceduresThirty upper limbs from the body donation program were dissected using standard procedures to identify the number of abductor pollicis longus (APL) tendons, their position, site of insertion, length, width and thickness. The presence or absence of the extensor pollicis brevis muscle was also noted. Inter and intra-observer reliability was analysed. Main findingsA total number of 71 tendons from the APL muscle were found in the thirty limbs. The most frequent distribution pattern was a main tendon inserted on the base of the first metacarpal and an accessory tendon inserted into the abductor pollicis brevis muscle. These tendons could divide into various tendinous slips that could insert in different locations. Also, clustering algorithms and classical statistical tests showed tendons inserting on the first metacarpal were longer than tendons not inserting on the first metacarpal (p = 0.03), while medial tendons and tendons from an APL muscle with supernumerary tendons were narrower (p < 0.001). The absence of the extensor pollicis brevis muscle was not related to the presence of supernumerary APL tendons. ConclusionsRadiological and surgical implications of these results are important when examining this region of the hand and wrist. The pathophysiology and treatment of de Quervain’s tenosynovitis, trapeziometacarpal arthritis and trapeziometacarpal subluxation or laxity could be influenced by the results of our findings.

Feasibility of the abductor pollicis longus hemitendon transfer for thumb opposition: An anatomical study

IntroductionThe abductor pollicis longus (APL) presents two muscle bellies and multiple accessory tendons available for transfer, amongst these an accessory tendon inserting on the thenar aponeurosis (APLTh). Edgerton described an opponensplasty using the whole APL tendon, but its results were limited due to the short size of the donor tendon. HypothesisThe purpose of this study is to assess the feasibility of transferring the APLTh for thumb opposition. Material and methodsEleven cadaver upper limbs were dissected to assess the presence of the two heads of the APL as well as their main and accessory tendon insertions. The accessory tendon of the APL inserting on the thenar aponeurosis (APLTh) was harvested with a slip of the thenar aponeurosis. The length of the transplant, the number of tendon slips and their location, as well as pre and postoperative radial and palmar abduction provided by the APL were assessed. ResultsThe APL was present in all cadavers whereas its insertion on the thenar aponeurosis was absent in 18% of the cases. When the APLTh was present and could be used for opponensplasty, the mean gain in palmar abduction was 16 degrees, and the mean loss in radial abduction was 21 degrees. DiscussionAlthough the experiments revealed a variability in APL anatomy, when present, the APLTh represents a suitable donor for the restoration of thumb opposition. In some cases of high median nerve palsies, thumb opposition can’t be restored using median innervated muscles. In these cases, when the APLTh is present, it can be used to restore thumb opposition without functional loss. Level of evidenceIV; anatomical feasibility study.

Abductor Pollicis Longus Tendon Abnormalities and Release in Children With Congenital Clasped Thumb.

Congenital clasped thumb is associated with deficient thumb extensor tendons. Reconstruction includes tendon transfer. Here, we describe a variant of the abductor pollicis longus (APL) tendon, not previously reported, contributing to the flexion deformity. The purpose of this study is to report examples of and offer surgical repair techniques for APL variants identified in patients with clasped thumb. We reviewed records of 11 consecutive patients undergoing reconstruction for clasped thumb. Surgical anatomy of the APL tendon was evaluated in all patients, followed by release of aberrant APL attachments. Participants were invited to return for an in-person assessment with a certified hand therapist. Data were collected regarding intraoperative findings, surgical techniques for reconstruction, postoperative thumb motion, and patient and caregiver satisfaction. Eleven children (12 thumbs) underwent aberrant APL release and rerouting between 2019 and 2021. Preoperatively, all thumbs were passively correctible to 0° of extension. In all patients, the APL was found to terminate palmar to the metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joint, creating an MCP flexion moment when tensioned. The average age at surgery was 7 years (range: 1-15 years), and the average follow-up was 14.2 months (range: 1-21 months). The mean postoperative thumb radial abduction was 55° (range: 20°-75°). When reconstructing clasped thumbs, surgeons should explore the presence of APL abnormalities. Release and centralization of the APL can improve thumb position and function. This technique may avoid the need for extra-anatomical tendon transfer in patients with clasped thumb.

A cadaveric study of first dorsal extensor compartment in Africans: Clinical implications

While several reports have been made regarding the anatomic variations in the first dorsal extensor compartment, very few have emanated from Africa. This study looked at this compartment with respect to variations in the superficial branch of the radial nerve and the enclosed tendons. The first dorsal extensor compartment of the hand was studied in 32 formalin preserved adult African cadavers. The superficial branch of the radial nerve emerged from underneath the brachioradialis 8.4cm(sd±2.2cm) proximal to the radial styloid and branched 6.2cm (sd ±1.5cm) proximal to it as well. This nerve along with the cephalic vein or its tributary transversed part of the compartment in all the hands. A double Extensor pollicis longus was found in one hand. Septations were observed in 31.3 %(n=10) of the hands. Abductor pollicis longus tendon was fused in three hands, and had more than one slip in 94% of the hands. A single extensor pollicis brevis tendon was found all dissected hands. Clinical implications of these findings are highlighted in this work.