Delayed reconstruction of a flexor digitorum profundus tendon lacerated during cesarean delivery: case report

Area of Science:

• Pediatric surgery
• Orthopedic surgery
• Hand surgery

Background:

• Flexor digitorum profundus tendon injuries in infants are rare.
• Cesarean section-related birth trauma can cause unique pediatric injuries.
• Primary tendon grafting is a complex reconstructive option for tendon defects.

Observation:

• A 14-month-old infant presented with a flexor digitorum profundus tendon laceration of the index finger.
• The injury was sustained during a cesarean section, indicating a congenital or birth-related etiology.
• The infant underwent primary tendon grafting for the digital flexor tendon injury.

Findings:

• The primary tendon graft demonstrated excellent functional recovery at the 2-year follow-up.
• Restoration of index finger flexion and extension was achieved.
• No significant complications were reported post-operatively.

Implications:

• Primary tendon grafting is a viable and effective treatment for pediatric flexor digitorum profundus tendon injuries.
• Early surgical intervention can lead to favorable long-term functional outcomes in infants with complex hand trauma.
• This case highlights the importance of considering congenital tendon injuries and advanced reconstructive techniques in pediatric hand surgery.