title: [Narrowing of the third extensor tendon compartment in minimal displaced distal radius fractures with impending rupture of the EPL tendon].
abstract: Delayed ruptures of the extensor pollicis longus tendon (EPL) occur in about 0.7 percent following undisplaced distal radius fractures. Two possible mechanisms are mainly discussed in the literature: A mechanical irritation of the tendon caused by a sharp edge of the fractured bone and a direct microvascular compromise of the poorly vascularized tendon. In undisplaced fractures, however, a mechanical irritation seems less likely. In the cases here described we were able to demonstrate a fragment displacement in the area of Lister's tubercle suspected by the native X-ray and further evaluated by a CT scan. The use of CT scans even in minor displaced distal radius fractures involving Lister's tubercle may demonstrate a direct contact of the EPL tendon with a sharp edge of this fractured bone and make adequate surgery possible.
authors.affiliation: Abteilung für Unfallchirurgie, Hand- und Wiederherstellungschirurgie, St Vinzenz-Hospital, Köln.
authors.forename: J
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Heidemann
authors.forename: T
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Gausepohl
authors.forename: D
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Pennig
mesh_terms: D001863:Bone Screws; D005593:Fracture Fixation, Internal; D006801:Humans; D004204:Joint Dislocations / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery*; D011183:Postoperative Complications / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D011885:Radius Fractures / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery*; D012307:Risk Factors; D012421:Rupture; D013708:Tendon Injuries; D013710:Tendons / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery; D013933:Thumb / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000293:injuries* / Q000601:surgery; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed; D014954:Wrist Injuries / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery*