Split Peroneus Longus Free Tendon Autograft Transplantation for the Treatment of Neglected Extensor Hallucis Longus Tendon Laceration: A Case Report

Abstract

A neglected laceration of the extensor hallucis longus (EHL) tendon is rare. Retraction of the tendon ends often occurs when a laceration is neglected, leading to a substantial tendon deficit. A paucity of case reports is available describing the treatment of EHL laceration with a large area of gap secondary to retraction. Therefore, the treatment recommendations are limited. We present the case of a neglected EHL tendon laceration with a 10.5-cm gap in a healthy 22-year-old female. The EHL tendon laceration was repaired using a split peroneus longus tendon autograft that, to the best of our knowledge, has not been previously reported. At the 3-year follow-up evaluation, the patient retained full function of her hallux and was free of symptoms.