Treatment of DeQuervain's disease/Radial sided wrist pain

April 24th, 2007

In most cases a single cortisone shot will remedy a painful case of 1st extensor compartment tendonitis between 50 and 80% of the time. When unsuccessful, a second shot, 4-6 weeks later, may be helpful in 25-50% of cases.

After 2 unsuccessful shots, additional cortisone is of little value, and surgical release of the retinaculum--the tissue overlying the APL and EBB tendons, may be required.

Surgery is performed as an outpatient under a local anesthesia, with or without sedation. A postoperative dressing is removed 1 week later and therapy is started. Usually by 6 weeks the wrist feels better, and in most cases, return to normal activity is allowed. The surgery is successful in the vast majority of patients--greater than 95%.

Related Photos:

A 2-3 cm incision on the radial aspect of the wrist is used

The APL and EPB thumb tendons are covered by the extensor retinaculm. Release of this tissue relieves the pain of DeQuervains tendonitis

The APL and EPB tendons are visible after surgical release

This type of dressing is worn after surgery for the 1st week