[Traumatic lesions of the hand extensor system: epidemiology and surgical considerations]

To investigate demographics, modalities and type of injuries among a population of isolated traumatic injuries of extensor tendons in order to evaluate the consequences on health service and on prevention.

Retrospective study of injuries treated at the divisions of Plastic Surgery and Orthopedics in a third level referral center among the years 1993-1999.

Data from 173 patients were analyzed, a prevalence of males (81%) and injuries at home (55%) has been observed. Especially young adults (46.88%) have been involved, the thumb has been most interested finger and the middle finger the least, with two peaks of incidence in spring and autumn. The lesions, exposed through an extension of the existing wound, have been usually sutured according to Kessler, adding an early protected motion protocol.

We discuss the possible causes and consequences of data observed, with special reference to the possibility of treating isolated extensor tendon injuries at district hospitals by non-hand surgeons, and primary actions of prevention.