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Recurrent dislocation of the extensor carpi ulnaris tendon
British Journal of Sports Medicine
|June 19, 1998
Summary
Surgical reconstruction of the extensor carpi ulnaris (ECU) tendon sheath effectively treated recurrent dislocations from athletic injuries. Both direct suture and retinaculum grafts yielded satisfactory outcomes for athletes experiencing ECU tendon instability.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Sports Medicine
- Hand Surgery
Background:
- Recurrent dislocation of the extensor carpi ulnaris (ECU) tendon is a debilitating condition often caused by athletic injuries.
- The integrity of the fibro-osseous sheath is crucial for ECU tendon stability within its ulnar groove.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of surgical reconstruction for symptomatic recurrent extensor carpi ulnaris tendon dislocation.
- To describe different types of fibro-osseous sheath disruption and their corresponding surgical management.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of five patients with recurrent ECU tendon dislocation due to athletic injury.
- Surgical techniques included direct suture for radial sheath ruptures and extensor retinaculum grafts for ulnar sheath ruptures.
Main Results:
- All five patients achieved satisfactory results following surgical sheath reconstruction.
- Radial ruptures were repaired with direct suture, while ulnar ruptures required retinaculum grafting.
Conclusions:
- Surgical reconstruction of the ECU tendon sheath is a reliable treatment for symptomatic recurrent dislocations.
- This approach should be considered even for acute presentations of ECU tendon instability.