Bilateral Congenital Hypoplasia of the Extensor Tendons of the Hands

Congenital hypoplasia or aplasia of the extensor tendons of the hands is an extremely rare condition characterized by an inability to extend the fingers due to underdeveloped or absent extensor tendons. This case study presents a 26-year-old female born with the inability to extend digits 2-5 bilaterally, an anomaly that has significantly impacted her hand function throughout her life. Despite multiple medical evaluations, tendon transfer surgery, and physical and occupational therapy, the patient has experienced mixed outcomes, with marginal improvement in some areas and persistent functional limitations in others. The rarity of this condition poses significant challenges in diagnosis and management, and treatment options must be highly individualized. This case highlights the complexities of managing congenital tendon anomalies and reinforces the need for more research to improve treatment outcomes.

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Publication Details

Journal
Cureus
Published
2025-02-26
DOI
https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.79698
Primary Topic
Tendon Structure and Treatment
Type
article
Field-Weighted Citation Impact
0.00
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article

Bilateral Congenital Hypoplasia of the Extensor Tendons of the Hands

D Beeson, B. Brooks, Thomas Bigham
Cureus
Tendon Structure and Treatment
article

Bilateral Congenital Hypoplasia of the Extensor Tendons of the Hands

D Beeson, B. Brooks, Thomas Bigham
article en

Abstract

Congenital hypoplasia or aplasia of the extensor tendons of the hands is an extremely rare condition characterized by an inability to extend the fingers due to underdeveloped or absent extensor tendons. This case study presents a 26-year-old female born with the inability to extend digits 2-5 bilaterally, an anomaly that has significantly impacted her hand function throughout her life. Despite multiple medical evaluations, tendon transfer surgery, and physical and occupational therapy, the patient has experienced mixed outcomes, with marginal improvement in some areas and persistent functional limitations in others. The rarity of this condition poses significant challenges in diagnosis and management, and treatment options must be highly individualized. This case highlights the complexities of managing congenital tendon anomalies and reinforces the need for more research to improve treatment outcomes.

CureusVol. 17(2)
Rocky Vista University (US)
Openalex Percentile: Top 96%
Tendon Structure and Treatment
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