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Flexor Tendon Repair Postoperative Rehabilitation: The Saint John Protocol
Amanda Higgins1, Donald H Lalonde1
1Occupational Therapy Department, Saint John Regional Hospital, Saint John, New Brunswick and Dalhousie University, Saint John, Canada.
Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. Global Open
|December 16, 2016
Summary
The Saint John Protocol for flexor tendon repair rehabilitation now uses limited finger flexion, avoiding the previous full fist method. This updated approach begins 3-5 days post-surgery to improve patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Hand surgery
- Orthopedic rehabilitation
- Tendon repair recovery
Background:
- The traditional Saint John Protocol involved a "full fist place and hold" technique.
- This method may pose risks or limitations in early flexor tendon repair rehabilitation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the modified Saint John Protocol.
- To explain the rationale behind the updated rehabilitation approach for flexor tendon injuries.
Main Methods:
- Implementing a rehabilitation program with protected, true active finger flexion up to half a fist.
- Initiating the program 3 to 5 days after flexor tendon repair.
- Utilizing film and text to illustrate the protocol modifications.
Main Results:
- The revised protocol focuses on controlled, active movement rather than passive "place and hold" maneuvers.
- Early active flexion is initiated within a specific timeframe post-surgery.
Conclusions:
- The modified Saint John Protocol represents an evolution in flexor tendon repair aftercare.
- This updated approach aims to optimize healing and functional recovery by modifying early post-operative mobilization.
