Compartments Deep to the Extensor Retinaculum
Clinical Significance and Common Pathologies
The compartments beneath the extensor retinaculum house vital extensor tendons, impacting wrist function and pathology.
Compartments Deep to the Extensor Retinaculum
Overview
The extensor retinaculum is a fibrous band in the wrist that stabilizes the extensor tendons. Beneath this structure, six distinct compartments house various tendons, each with unique clinical significance.
Anatomical Compartments
Compartment 1
Contains the abductor pollicis longus and extensor pollicis brevis, often implicated in De Quervain's tenosynovitis.
Compartment 2
Includes the extensor carpi radialis longus and extensor carpi radialis brevis, critical for wrist extension.
Compartment 3
Houses the extensor pollicis longus, prone to tendon rupture in certain fractures.
Compartment 4
Contains the extensor digitorum and extensor indicis, responsible for finger extension.
Compartment 5
Hosts the extensor digiti minimi, frequently involved in tendinopathy.
Compartment 6
Includes the extensor carpi ulnaris, contributing to wrist stabilization.
Clinical Significance
- De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis: Inflammation in Compartment 1, causing pain and limited thumb movement.
- Extensor Tendon Ruptures: Common in Compartment 3, often due to distal radius fractures.
- Tendon Instabilities: Seen in Compartment 6, affecting wrist function.
Conclusion
Understanding the compartments deep to the extensor retinaculum is essential for diagnosing and managing various wrist pathologies.
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