A Retrospective Case Series Study on a Minimally Invasive Ultrasound-Guided First Dorsal Compartment Release Technique for Refractory De Quervain Tenosynovitis

ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to evaluate the outcomes of patients treated with a novel minimally invasive complete release of the first dorsal compartment percutaneously under ultrasound guidance using an 18-gauge needle with an 18 blade at the tip.DesignThis was a retrospective case series. Nine adults (ten wrists) were included in the study of this technique. All patients had failed conservative care and had tenderness to palpation over the first dorsal compartment, a positive Finklestein test, and confirmed tenosynovitis with ultrasound imaging before the procedure. The main outcome measures were reduction in pain as determined by the numeric rating scale and improvement of function determined by the Nirschl Phase scale at both short- and long-term follow-up.ResultsThere was 100% follow-up, with mean (SD) follow-up occurring at 23.1 (9.8) mos (range, 9-42 mos). From preprocedure to follow-up, numeric rating scale pain decreased from 4.1 (SD, 2.5) to 0.0 (SD, 0.0) (P < 0.001), and Nirschl phase improved from 2.5 (SD, 1.9) to 0.2 (SD, 0.4) (P = 0.03). No patients required revision open-release surgery or suffered neurovascular complications.ConclusionThis technique resulted in significant improvement of pain and function for all patients and no short- or long-term neurovascular complications were seen.