Der Unfallchirurg
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The ideal surgical and postoperative treatment for flexor tendon injuries, especially in zone 2, is still subject to continuous modifications and professional discussions. ⋯ A stable tendon repair with smooth gliding is the foundation for treatment after flexor tendon injuries. After intraoperative active digital extension-flexion testing of the sutured tendon an early active rehabilitation approach should follow. New splint designs in combination with primary stable tendon suture techniques have the potential to improve the postoperative outcome, presupposing a reliable cooperation of the patient.
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The treatment of flexor tendon injuries is still challenging, especially in the region of the narrow annular ligaments and tendon sheaths of the 3‑segment fingers and the thumb (zone 2). In the course of time, the primary suture of the flexor tendons has prevailed over traditional recommendations for a secondary tendon replacement after healing of the wound. Improvements regarding suture techniques and materials and, above all the follow-up treatment, have been crucial for better results and remarkable changes in flexor tendon surgery. ⋯ To achieve this an early functionally active protocol should be implemented. The tendon suture should enable this by having a high primary strength and therefore at least a 4-strand core suture technique with a ring suture should be given preference. Further important prerequisites for success are the undisturbed gliding of the repaired tendon in its "bed" paying special attention to the annular ligaments and preservation of the blood supply to the tendons.
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Normal function of the fingers and thumb depends on properly gliding flexor tendons and a free range of motion of the involved joints. This normal gliding function may be inhibited by adhesions due to damage of the tendon, tendon sheath and adjacent tissue. When digital function is still limited despite a long-term course of hand therapy and there are no signs of further improvement, surgical intervention should be considered. ⋯ Therefore, extensive approaches, arthrolysis, dissolution of unfavorable scar tissue, resection of scarred lumbrical muscles and annular pulley reconstruction are frequently necessary. Salvage procedures, such as arthrodesis, amputation, ray resection or multistage flexor tendon reconstruction are recommended in failed cases and should be considered even preoperatively. In order to retain the intraoperative functional improvement hand therapy for at least 3-6 months should follow.
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The secondary reconstruction of flexor tendons is in most cases very demanding and tedious. The indications, selection of the correct surgical procedure, operative technique and further treatment have to be individually adjusted and are mostly very difficult. Due to the previous operations unpleasant surprises may occur intraoperatively, which must be recognized and treated by the surgeon. Nevertheless, a significant improvement of the function of the whole hand can be achieved for most patients, e.g. by a two-stage flexor tendon transplantation or other techniques described in this article.
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Injuries to the flexor tendons in children are less common than in adults. The clinical examination and diagnostics require extensive experience. Leaving flexor tendons untreated will result in growth disorders of the affected finger. ⋯ Children under 6 years of age are postoperatively immobilized for 3 weeks with a fist bandage. Children older than 6 years are treated like adults with a dynamic aftercare as described by Kleinert for 5 weeks. The results are comparable with those of other aftercare protocols.