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Practice patterns in flexor tendon repair
C Healy1, K J Mulhall, D J Bouchier-Hayes
1R.C.S.I. Department of Surgery, Education and Research Centre, Beaumont Hospital, Beaumont, Dublin 9, Ireland. claraghhealy@eircom.net
Irish Journal of Medical Science
|September 13, 2007
Summary
The Kessler core suture and simple running peripheral suture remain the most popular flexor tendon repair techniques in Ireland. Most surgeons also prefer to suture the flexor sheath when possible.
Area of Science:
- Orthopaedic Surgery
- Plastic Surgery
- Hand Surgery
Background:
- Extensive literature exists on novel flexor tendon repair methods.
- The efficacy and adoption of these new techniques vary.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate current flexor tendon repair techniques in the Republic of Ireland.
- To identify preferred surgical approaches among Irish hand surgeons.
Main Methods:
- A postal survey was distributed to consultant plastic and orthopaedic surgeons.
- Members of the Irish Hand Surgery Society were targeted for participation.
Main Results:
- A 90% response rate was achieved.
- The Kessler core suture (68%) and simple running peripheral suture (73%) were most common.
- Non-absorbable sutures were frequently used for both core and peripheral repairs.
- Seventy-seven percent of surgeons sutured the flexor sheath when feasible.
Conclusions:
- Despite advancements, the Kessler core and simple running peripheral suture remain the preferred flexor tendon repair methods.
- Flexor sheath closure is a common practice among surveyed surgeons.
- Current practices may not fully reflect the adoption of newer, potentially superior techniques.
