The Use of a Tendon Protector Sheath for Prevention of First Extensor Compartment Tendon Adhesions after Radial Column Plating for Distal Radius Fracture: A Case Report

Abstract

Introduction: Although volar locking plates are the most commonly used implant method for open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) of distal radius fractures, complex fractures may require the use of fragment-specific fixation. Radial column plates are placed adjacent to the tendons of the first extensor compartment and may lead to tendon entrapment. This case report demonstrates the use of TenoGlide Tendon Protector Sheet to prevent the formation of tendon adhesions after ORIF of a distal radius fracture. Case Report: A healthy 35-year-old female suffered a distal radius fracture after a fall from a horse. The patient underwent ORIF with a volar locking and radial column plate, but subsequently developed limited thumb extension postoperatively. Reoperation for hardware removal and tenolysis was performed with a TenoGlide Tendon Protector Sheet placed between the first extensor compartment tendons and adjacent bone. Patient regained full thumb extension by the final follow-up 3 months postoperatively. Conclusion: Bone-tendon adhesions of the first extensor compartment in the wrist are a possible complication of radial column plating for fixation of distal radius fractures. The TenoGlide Tendon Protector Sheet is effective in preventing first extensor compartment entrapment after radial column plating for distal radius fractures.