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Long-term results of extensor tendon repair.
M L Newport1, W F Blair, C M Steyers
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock 79430.
The Journal of Hand Surgery
|November 1, 1990
Summary
Extensor tendon injuries in fingers often involve associated damage, impacting outcomes. Early identification and treatment of these complex hand injuries are crucial for better functional recovery.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Hand Surgery
- Traumatology
Background:
- Extensor tendon injuries are common in the hand.
- Outcomes can be affected by various factors, including associated injuries and injury location.
- Conventional static splinting is a frequent treatment method.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the outcomes of extensor tendon injuries.
- To identify parameters influencing functional recovery after extensor tendon repair.
- To compare results based on injury characteristics and location.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 62 patients with 101 digits affected by extensor tendon injury.
- Evaluation of treatment outcomes and influencing factors.
- Comparison of results between digits with and without associated injuries, and across different anatomical zones.
Main Results:
- Sixty percent of digits had associated injuries (fracture, dislocation, flexor tendon damage).
- Digits without associated injuries showed significantly better outcomes (64% good/excellent results, 212 degrees total active motion).
- Distal extensor tendon injuries (zones 1-4) had poorer results compared to proximal injuries (zones 5-8).
Conclusions:
- Associated injuries significantly worsen outcomes for extensor tendon injuries.
- Loss of finger flexion is a more substantial complication than loss of extension.
- Treatment strategies should consider the presence of associated injuries and the specific zone of injury.