An intraoperative test to show extensor carpi ulnaris tendon instability

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Hand and Wrist Surgery

Background:

• Extensor carpi ulnaris (ECU) tendon instability can cause ulnar-sided wrist pain.
• Diagnosing ECU instability, particularly within the ulnar sulcus, can be challenging preoperatively.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a novel intraoperative test for evaluating extensor carpi ulnaris tendon instability.
• To provide surgeons with a reliable method for diagnosing ECU subluxation during surgical procedures.

Main Methods:

• Development and description of a specific intraoperative maneuver to assess ECU tendon stability.
• Intraoperative testing performed in the ulnar sulcus to elicit signs of instability.

Main Results:

• The described test effectively demonstrates extensor carpi ulnaris tendon instability.
• The maneuver allows for direct visualization and assessment of tendon subluxation within the ulnar sulcus.

Conclusions:

• A simple and effective intraoperative test for extensor carpi ulnaris tendon instability is presented.
• This diagnostic tool can aid surgeons in identifying and managing ECU subluxation during wrist surgery.