Use of the transfixion loop knot due to rupture of the extensor pollicis longus tendon
Keywords:
Continuous transfixing loop; transfixing knot; rupture of the extensor longus tendon of the thumb; tendon transfer; tendon injuries; thumb and surgery; hand injuries and surgery; minimally invasive surgical procedures; surgical flaps; case reportsAbstract
Background: A surgical alternative for open or closed injuries of the extensor pollicis longus,is based on a new form of dynamic tendon transfer, using a novel knot called the transfixing and continuous loop. With this maneuver, the extensor function of the thumb is restored.
Objective: To present a surgical alternative for injuries of the extensor pollicis longus, based on a method of dynamic tendon transfer using the transfixing and continuous loop.
Case Presentation: A 68-year-old male patient, with a history of a left distal radius fracture approximately five months ago. He described that during a work-related activity he felt a "snap" in his wrist and from that moment , he was unable to lift his thumb. Additional tests and X-rays of the hand and wrist were conducted, which showed no abnormalities. According to symptoms, physical examination, and ancillary studies, a presumptive diagnosis of a closed rupture of the extensor pollicis longus tendon was formulated. A surgical intervention in which the injury was repaired using the transfixing and continuous loop knot technique was conducted, with the extensor indicis proprius tendon used as the donor.
Conclusions: The results achieved demonstrate the effectiveness of the treatment using the novel transfixing and continuous loop knot as a surgical treatment option for extensor pollicis longus rupture of the thumb, as well as its advantages over other technically more complex procedures.
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