The type of splint most likely used is the dorsal forearm based static extension splint on the second or third postoperative day. The wrist is slightly flexed while the affected fingers and thumb are splinted in full extension. Question 11 De Quervain s disease affects the first dorsal compartment of the hand when repetitive mechanical stress causes tenosynovitis. To perform the Finkelstein s test, the thumb is held in full flexion-adduction and the wrist is abruptly deviated in the ulnar deviation. Excruciating pain in the region of the radial styloid indicates the presence of De Quervain s disease.
Conservative management is directed towards reducing oedema.