A loop suture for dynamic tendon transfer in the repair of chronic or acute extensor pollicis longus ruptures

Tech Hand Up Extrem Surg. 2014 Jun;18(2):62-5. doi: 10.1097/BTH.0000000000000033.

Abstract

Ruptures of extensor pollicis longus (EPL) tendon may need a tendon transfer for repair, especially in chronic ruptures. We describe a novel transfer technique using a loop-tendon suture for dynamic transfer of extensor pollicis brevis to EPL. We performed an end-to-side transfixing-loop self-locking suture preserving the extensor pollicis brevis, which acts as a motor unit for the distal end of the repaired tendon. Contraindications would mainly be simultaneous rupture of EPL and brevis tendons. No complications were observed, except for mild metacarpal-phalangeal stiffness in chronic ruptures. An early rehabilitation program may be started when no other associated injuries exist.

MeSH terms

  • Acute Disease
  • Chronic Disease
  • Humans
  • Rupture
  • Suture Techniques
  • Tendon Injuries / rehabilitation
  • Tendon Injuries / surgery*
  • Tendon Transfer / methods*
  • Thumb / surgery*