Dequervains Disease

About Dequervains Disease

This condition is related to tendonitis of the abductor pollucis longus (APL) and extensor pollucis brevis (EPB). These tendons are located over the radial aspect of the wrist and control function of the thumb. These tendons pass through a fibro-osseous tunnel where they can become entrapped, damaged and chromically inflamed. This is typically encountered as an overuse injury. Initial treatment is oral anti-inflammatory medications, steroid injections, bracing, activity avoidance and exercises. In cases that do not resolve with medical treatment surgery is recommended.

The Procedure

At Regional Orthopedics this condition can be surgically treated on an ambulatory basis, with local anesthetic , through a small 1 inch incision over the radial aspect of the wrist. The ligament overlying the fibrosseous tunnel is released, inflammatory tissue is removed from the surface of the tendons and any tendon tearing can be repaired. Recovery time is rapid and routine activities can be performed within a few days.