Avulsion Fracture of Extensor Carpi Radialis Brevis Insertion: A Case Report and Review of Literature

Introduction Avulsion of extensor carpi radialis brevis (ECRB) insertion from dorsal base of the third metacarpal with or without bony chips is rarely reported. Case Presentation The current study reported the case of a young male that after falling down the stairs, referred to emergency room with dorsal wrist pain and weakness in wrist extension, and the lateral X-ray showed a bone fragment of dorsal capitate, but the computed tomography (CT) scan proved that the fragment was detached from the third metacarpal base. Then, with the diagnosis of ECRB avulsion fracture of its metacarpal base, the patient was operated and the fragment and accompanying tendon were fixed with 3 k-wires to its anatomic location and after 6 weeks of casting the pins were removed and at 6 months post-operation the range of motion and strength were the same as those of contralateral side. Conclusions ECRB avulsion is a rare condition, and its diagnosis can be difficult, and it should be in differential diagnosis of wrist trauma with tenderness on the base of the third metacarpal bone.