We compared two surgical procedures for de Quervain's disease that was not responsive to conservative treatment. Group A (simple release) consisted of 38 patients and group B (Z-plasty of the retinaculum) included 36 patients. The visual analogue scale score and the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand Score improved significantly after surgery; there were no statistical differences in outcome between the two groups. In group A, one patient required reoperation, two had subluxations of extensor tendons and two had temporary loss of sensation in the area of the radial nerve. In group B, two patients had temporary loss of sensation. The mean time to resolution of pain at the operative site was significantly shorter in group B. Both simple release and Z-plasty were effective surgical methods. Z-plasty allowed earlier return to activities of daily living but there was no statistical difference between the two groups in incidence of complication.
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