The APL is the most anterior wrist tendon, forming the radial border of the anatomical snuffbox alongside EPB. Its multiple slips (up to five insertional slips in 60% of individuals) create subcompartments within the first extensor compartment — the principal cause of failed de Quervain's release when accessory APL slips are not individually identified and released.
Thumb CMC abduction and extension; radial wrist deviation; the multiple slip anatomy contributes to de Quervain's subcompartment complexity
De Quervain's tenosynovitis surgery requires identification and release of all first compartment subcompartments — the most common failure is missing the EPB subcompartment (present in 70%) or the accessory APL slips. The intersection of APL and ECRB 4-6 cm proximal to the wrist produces intersection syndrome — distinct from de Quervain's in location (more proximal) and mechanism (friction at the crossing point rather than the retinaculum).
APL and EPB tenosynovitis in the first extensor compartment producing radial wrist pain managed with injection and surgical compartment release with identification of all subcompartments.
This website uses cookies to enhance your experience. Some are essential for site functionality, while others help us analyze and improve your usage experience. Please review your options and make your choice.
If you are under 16 years old, please ensure that you have received consent from your parent or guardian for any non-essential cookies.
Your privacy is important to us. You can adjust your cookie settings at any time. For more information about how we use data, please read our privacy policy. You may change your preferences at any time by clicking on the settings button below.
Note that if you choose to disable some types of cookies, it may impact your experience of the site and the services we are able to offer.
Some required resources have been blocked, which can affect third-party services and may cause the site to not function properly.
This website uses cookies to enhance your browsing experience and ensure the site functions properly. By continuing to use this site, you acknowledge and accept our use of cookies.
