Extensor Tendon Rupture in Non-Traumatic Osteoarthritis of Distal Radioulnar Joint: Vaughan-Jackson Syndrome – A Rare Case Report from Indian Subcontinent

Abstract

Osteoarthritis of distal radioulnar joint with rupture of extensor tendon of hand is a rare problem seen in elderly. It was first reported by Vaughen and Jackson in 1948 and the syndrome is named after them. The rupture results from attrition of dorsally dislocated ulnar head during pronation and supination movements. This dislocation of ulnar head is due to dehiscence of dorsal capsule of the distal radioulnar joint. "Scallop sign"1 is a radiological sign which are seen in this condition and signifies impending rupture of extensor tendon. Tendon transfer with excision of ulnar head is a viable option. We present a case of attritional rupture of extensor tendon of 4th and 5th fingers in a patient with non-traumatic osteoarthritis of distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ) in an elderly female. To the best of our knowledge no case of attritional rupture of extensor tendon of hand with osteoarthritis of distal radioulnar joint has been reported from Indian subcontinent.