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Supernumerary extensor pollicis longus tendon: a case report
Takuya Sawaizumi1, Mitsuhiko Nanno, Hiromoto Ito
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Nippon Medical School, Tokyo, Japan.
The Journal of Hand Surgery
|December 4, 2003
Summary
This study details a rare anatomical variation of the extensor pollicis longus (EPL) tendon, which split into two slips with an unusual wrist course before rejoining near the metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joint.
Area of Science:
- Anatomy
- Orthopedics
- Hand Surgery
Background:
- The extensor pollicis longus (EPL) tendon is crucial for thumb extension.
- Anatomical variations of the EPL tendon are uncommon but can lead to clinical complications.
- Understanding EPL tendon anomalies is vital for accurate diagnosis and surgical planning.
Observation:
- A rare case of a bifurcated EPL tendon was observed.
- The tendon originated as two slips, coursed abnormally across the wrist, and rejoined near the metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joint.
Findings:
- The radial slip of the EPL tendon traversed a separate sheath between the first and second dorsal compartments.
- The ulnar slip passed superficial to the extensor retinaculum.
Implications:
- This anatomical anomaly may predispose to specific wrist pathologies or affect surgical planning.
- Understanding such variations is vital for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment in hand surgery.