Introduction Ruptures of the extensor pollicis longus (EPL) tendon are a
well-known complication of distal radius fractures (DRF). There are a lot of
suspected mechanisms, including mechanical friction, vascular impairment, injury
associated with reduction, and local adhesion. However, there have been limited
reports about a closed rupture of the EPL tendon associated with a relatively
large, displaced dorsal “beak” fracture fragment. We report about the management
outcomes and clinical significance of closed ruptures of the EPL tendon caused
by a displaced dorsal fracture fragment of beak-like appearance in DRF.
Patients/Material and Methods Our study included 7 cases of a complete
closed rupture of the EPL tendon after open reduction internal fixation. All
cases showed a similar pattern involving a relatively large dorsal beak fragment
originating from Lister’s tubercle, and we treated them with a palmar locking
plate within 7 days from the initial fracture without separate dorsal fragment
management. All patients were diagnosed with a delayed EPL tendon rupture.
Results The study included 5 female and 2 male patients. Mean patient age
was 59 years. In all cases we explored the extensor compartment III to verify
the exact cause of the EPL rupture. Six patients underwent an extensor indicis
transfer and one patient underwent tendon grafting.Mean fragment width and length were 7.0 mm and 13.3 mm, respectively. The
fragments were dorsally elevated (mean, 2.4 mm) and distally displaced (mean,
3.5 mm). At the last follow-up, the mean DASH score was 4.4. Mean thumb MP joint
flexion and extension were 4 degrees and 62 degrees, respectively.
Conclusion We support the possibility of EPL tendon rupture caused by
displaced sharp Lister’s tubercle fracture fragments.