Failed Reconstruction of the Extensor Pollicis Longus in a Patient with a Major Variation of the Extensor Indicis Proprius Tendon: A Case Report

Tendon transferwith extensor indicisproprius (EIP) has been performed widely for reconstructing ruptures of the extensor pollicis longus because of its simplicity and clinical outcome. We experienced a rerupture of the extensor pollicis longus restored by incorrect tendon transferbecause of a major unrecognized variation in the anatomy of the EIP. Surgeons should perform such transfer with a detailed knowledge of the possible anatomical variations to avoid such serious complications.