Steroid Injection Versus Open Surgery in the Treatment of De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis

Abstract

Aim: This study aimed to compare steroid injection and open surgery in the treatment of De Quervain’s tenosynovitis.Materials and Methods: Between January 2013 and April 2015, a total of 82 patients (65 females, 17 males; mean age=40.3 years;range, 20 to 71 years) who were admitted were included retrospectively. The patients were assigned into two groups, including group Iundergoing open surgery, and group II receiving steroid injections. The rates of recurrence and satisfaction were evaluated. The patientsundergoing surgery were also evaluated for the wound site infection, nerve injury, wound opening, and limited range of motions of thejoints. The patients receiving steroid injections were evaluated for subcutaneous atrophy, fat necrosis, weakening or rupture of tendons,and depigmentation.Results: The mean follow-up was 12 months (range: 6 to 22). Recurrence occurred in eight patients (20%) in the steroid injection group;however, no recurrence was seen in patients undergoing open surgery. Satisfactory or very satisfactory results were achieved in all patientsin the surgery group (p=0.04). There were no complications in both groups.Conclusion: Although steroid injection is a therapeutic option in De Quervain’s tenosynovitis, open surgery appears to be a more beneficialmethod with relatively low recurrence and complication rates.