Rupture of extensor digitorum communis after distal ulnar styloidectomy.

Attrition ruptures of tendons in the hand, other than those caused by rheumatoid arthritis, are rare. We report a case in which high styloidectomy of the distal ulna caused the rupture of the extensor digitorum communis tendon to the long finger. This complication can be avoided by resection of the smallest segment of the distal ulna that is compatible with relief of the problem. Soft tissue closure over the resected end of the ulna should also be carried out.