Extensor Pollicis Longus Entrapment in a Pediatric Distal Radius Fracture: A Case Report and Review of the Literature

Entrapment of the extensor pollicis longus (EPL) tendon following a pediatric distal radius fracture is an exceptionally rare occurrence that can clinically mimic tendon rupture. We report the case of a 12-year-old girl who presented with loss of active thumb extension several weeks after successful reduction of a distal radius fracture. Imaging studies ruled out tendon rupture, and subsequent surgical exploration confirmed entrapment of the EPL within the fracture callus. The patient underwent tenolysis and achieved good functional recovery. This case highlights the importance of considering tendon entrapment in patients with unexplained thumb dysfunction following forearm fractures.