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De Quervain

De Quervain's tenosynovitis treats inflammation of the tendon sheath on the thumb side of the wrist, first conservatively and, if needed, with a small operation.

Let us guide you

De Quervain's tenosynovitis is inflammation of the synovial lining of the tunnel through which two thumb tendons pass, where the base of the thumb meets the wrist.

Because of the inflammation, the tissue swells, the tunnel becomes narrower, and the tendons glide less smoothly.

Overuse from repeated gripping or wringing is a frequent cause. Trauma or rheumatism may also play a role. Pain and swelling on the thumb side of the wrist are the most common symptoms.

When is this treatment appropriate?

During the consultation, we assess whether this treatment fits your situation.

Not sure whether de quervain is right for you?

Let us guide you

Often suitable for

Pain on the thumb side of the wrist

Swelling around the tendon sheath

Symptoms due to overuse, trauma, or rheumatism

Little improvement with rest, splint, or anti-inflammatory medication

Onderzoek van de duimbasis en pols bij De Quervain.

How does the treatment proceed?

History and clinical examination often already point to De Quervain's. Ultrasound confirms the diagnosis.

First, we try without surgery: avoiding triggering movements, a splint, anti-inflammatory medication, and sometimes cortisone into the tendon sheath.

For severe symptoms or little improvement, the tendon sheath is surgically opened and the irritated tissue with swelling is removed.

Confirmation

Ultrasound confirms inflammation of the tendon sheath.

Conservative first

Rest, splint, anti-inflammatory medication, or cortisone may suffice.

Surgery if needed

The tendon sheath is opened and irritated tissue is removed.

Druk op de handpalm nabij de duimbasis bij De Quervain.

For de quervain we choose an approach that fits your expectations, with precise technique and smooth recovery.

Dr. Thomas Muyldermans

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From consultation to recovery

A clear path with personal guidance, from the first conversation to a beautiful and natural result.

Drukpunt nabij pols en duimbasis bij De Quervain.

  1. Consultation

    History, clinical examination, and ultrasound confirm the diagnosis.

  2. Conservative start

    Avoiding triggering movements, splint, anti-inflammatory medication, or cortisone come first.

  3. The procedure

    If needed, the operation takes approximately 20 minutes under local anesthesia.

  4. First days

    A dressing remains around the wrist for a few days. Shortly afterwards, you may gradually move the wrist.

  5. Follow-up

    After about 10 days, sutures are removed and progress is monitored.

Frequently asked questions

Is surgery always needed?

No. First we try rest, splint, anti-inflammatory medication, or cortisone. Surgery follows for severe symptoms or little improvement.

Why is ultrasound requested?

Ultrasound confirms the diagnosis of De Quervain's tenosynovitis.

When may I move my wrist again?

Shortly after surgery, you may gradually begin moving the wrist.

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