Archives of Plastic Surgery

Korean Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons (대한성형외과학회)
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Flexor Tendon Rupture Secondary to Gout

  • Jeremy V. Lynn (Section of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Michigan Medical School) ;
  • Amy L. Strong (Section of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Michigan Medical School) ;
  • Kevin C. Chung (Section of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Michigan Medical School)
  • Received : 2023.03.08
  • Accepted : 2023.07.25
  • Published : 2023.09.15
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Abstract

Extra-articular deposition of monosodium urate crystals is a widely recognized manifestation of gout. However, gouty infiltration of flexor tendons in the hand resulting in tendon rupture is exceedingly rare. This case report highlights a patient with gouty infiltration of flexor tendons in the right middle finger resulting in rupture of both the flexor digitorum profundus and flexor digitorum superficialis. Given the extent of gouty infiltration and need for pulley reconstruction, the patient was treated with two-stage flexor tendon reconstruction. Febuxostat was prescribed preoperatively to limit further deposition of monosodium urate crystals and continued postoperatively to maximize the potential for long-lasting results. Prednisone was prescribed between the first- and second-stage operations to prevent a gout flare while the silicone rod was in place. In summary, tendon rupture secondary to gouty infiltration is the most likely diagnosis in patients with a history of gout presenting with tendon insufficiency.

Keywords

Acknowledgement

The authors would like to thank Hayley Sanders for her contribution to this case report.

References

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