First Extensor Compartment Release for De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis
Arya Rao¹; Sudhir B. Rao, MD^2
1Harvard/MIT MD-PhD Program
²Munson Healthcare Cadillac Hospital

This video provides detailed step-by-step instruction for performing first dorsal compartment release in De Quervain’s tenosynovitis, with particular emphasis on anatomical landmarks, proper tissue handling, and identification of important neurovascular structures. The surgical release of the first extensor compartment for De Quervain’s tenosynovitis is a well-established procedure with consistently favorable outcomes when proper surgical technique is employed. When performed with attention to these technical details, the procedure provides reliable relief of symptoms with a low complication rate.

This surgical technique video would be particularly valuable for orthopaedic and hand surgery residents, as well as practicing surgeons who seek to refine their approach to first extensor compartment release. The detailed demonstration of nerve identification and the management of anatomical variations, especially the emphasis on finding accessory compartments, provides crucial technical aspects which help surgeons avoid complications and improve patient outcomes.