title: Pseudo-rupture of Extensor Pollicis Longus following Kischner wire fixation of distal radius fractures.
abstract: We report two cases of extensor pollicis longus tendon tethering following K-wire insertion to treat unstable distal radius fractures, an unusual complication. In both cases, extensor pollicis longus function returned with conservative management. The structures considered "at risk" during K-wire insertion are described, and the common complications are discussed. Operative approaches to minimise soft tissue damage during K-wire insertion are reviewed. This case report is the first to demonstrate the potential for ultrasound scanning to aid in the diagnosis of extensor pollicis longus tethering.
authors.affiliation: Aberdeen Royal Infirmary, Aberdeen, Scotland.
authors.forename: Mark R
authors.initials: MR
authors.lastname: Harrison
authors.forename: Steven
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Hamilton
authors.forename: Alan J
authors.initials: AJ
authors.lastname: Johnstone
mesh_terms: D000058:Accidental Falls; D000328:Adult; D001864:Bone Wires / Q000009:adverse effects*; D020878:Device Removal; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D005593:Fracture Fixation, Internal / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000379:methods; D006801:Humans; D015601:Injury Severity Score; D008875:Middle Aged; D018482:Muscle, Skeletal / Q000293:injuries / Q000601:surgery; D011859:Radiography; D011885:Radius Fractures / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery*; D020127:Recovery of Function; D018570:Risk Assessment; D012421:Rupture / Q000209:etiology / Q000601:surgery; D013708:Tendon Injuries / Q000209:etiology* / Q000601:surgery; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014954:Wrist Injuries / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery*