De Quervain Tendinopathy: Anatomical Prognostic Indicators of Corticosteroid Injection Success

Anatomical variations of the first extensor compartment can affect de Quervain tendinopathy outcomes. Our study aimed to identify the anatomical prognostic indicators of symptom recurrence following a corticosteroid (CS) injection and to assess the efficacy of CS injections.

Fifty consecutive patients received a single CS injection for de Quervain tendinopathy. Ultrasound imaging was used to assess anatomical factors of the first extensor tendon compartment of the wrist. The primary outcome was recurrence after six weeks and six months and the identification of the anatomical prognostic indicators of the recurrence. The Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) score and the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) for pain were evaluated as secondary outcomes.

Fifteen patients (30%) experienced symptom recurrence within six weeks. The intracompartmental septum and the number of tendon slips were associated with higher recurrence rates (adjusted odds ratio for the septum: 18.39, p = 0.045; adjusted odds ratio for each additional tendon slip: 24.68, p < 0.01). The mean DASH score improved from 74.1 ± 5 to 19.3 ± 25.3, and the mean VAS for pain from 8.5 ± 0.8 to 2 ± 2.7 (p < 0.01 for both scores). Five patients experienced minor adverse events with spontaneous improvement.

CS injections are a viable treatment for de Quervain tendinopathy. Anatomical variations can predict treatment success. Counseling patients based on these factors can help guide treatment decisions, including surgical options.