EPL
Also written as: EPL — Extensor pollicis longus
Extensor pollicis longus - the muscle that extends and retracts the thumb, whose tendon is prone to rupture following distal radius fractures.
Full Definition
The extensor pollicis longus (EPL) is a muscle located in the deep posterior compartment of the forearm that extends the thumb at the metacarpophalangeal and interphalangeal joints while also providing retropulsion (moving the thumb away from the palm). The EPL tendon travels around Lister's tubercle on the dorsal radius before inserting into the distal phalanx of the thumb. This tendon is particularly susceptible to rupture following distal radius fractures due to mechanical attrition or ischemia as it courses around the bony prominence. EPL rupture results in loss of thumb extension and retropulsion, significantly impairing hand function.
Usage
Usage note: Often associated with delayed complications of distal radius fractures.
In Context
- "MRI confirmed complete EPL tendon rupture six weeks following Colles' fracture." — Imaging study results
- "EPL tendon transfer using extensor indicis proprius restored thumb extension function." — Surgical repair description