Final answer:
The extensor pollicis longus tendon is most commonly at risk of rupture following volar plating of the radius, a procedure to fix unstable fractures of the forearm.
Step-by-step explanation:
The tendon most commonly associated with rupture following volar plating of the radius is the extensor pollicis longus (EPL) tendon. Volar plating is a surgical procedure used to stabilize fractures of the radius, one of the two bones in the forearm. While it is an effective treatment for fractures that are unstable and won't heal properly on their own, a potential complication is the rupture of the EPL tendon. This tendon is important for thumb extension and its rupture can significantly affect hand function.
The mechanism of injury is often attributed to irritation or abrasion of the tendon by the plate or screw ends used during volar plating. A surgeon must carefully monitor the placement of hardware to minimize this risk and ensure that the tendon glides smoothly without interference.