A Simple Blind Tenolysis for Flexor Carpi Radialis Tendinopathy

Abstract

Background Flexor carpi radialis (FCR) tendinopathy is an entity with a chronic form (repetitiveness of work) and an acute form (acute overstretching of the wrist). Confirmation of this syndrome can be established by injection of a small amount of a local anesthetic in the sheet of the FCR at this tender point. Complete relieve of the symptoms after injection confirms the existence of a tendinopathy of the FCR. Whereas rest and/or local application of steroids do not have a persistent effect on the short term outcome, a tenolysis could be performed. Before performing a tenolysis underlying causes should be excluded or treated. Methods In this article a simple and save technique is described, using a small Beaver knife to open the osteofibrous tunnel of the flexor carpi radialis tendon, without opening the carpal tunnel. Results Relieve of complaints could be reached up to almost two third of all cases. Conclusion In cases in which non-operative treatment is not effective regarding FCR tendinopathy, a simple blind technique by opening the osteofibrous tunnel could be successful.