Extensor tendon sheath fistula formation as a complication of wrist arthroscopy

The indications and applications for wrist arthroscopy continue to expand as new techniques and instrumentation evolve. Wrist arthroscopy is now the gold standard investigation for chronic wrist pain before definitive surgery. Although complications are uncommon, they may include infection, neuroma formation, tendon injury, dorsal skin slough, tourniquet neurapraxia, and reflex sympathetic dystrophy. We describe extensor tendon sheath fistula formation arising from the 3/4 portal after diagnostic wrist arthroscopy and our management in this novel case. The formation of a patent communication between the radiocarpal joint and the tendon sheath permitting the collection of synovial fluid has not previously been described.