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Closed Partial Flexor Digitorum Profundus Rupture: An Unusual Cause of Pediatric Trigger Finger
Shane R Jackson1, Meily Tan2, Kim O Taylor1
11 Eastern Health, Box Hill, Victoria, Australia.
Insights
Acute trigger finger in children, caused by partial flexor tendon injury, can be effectively treated by surgical excision of the damaged tendon segment, restoring full finger motion and strength.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Orthopedics
- Hand Surgery
- Musculoskeletal Disorders
Background:
- Trigger finger typically results from chronic inflammation impairing digital flexor tendon gliding.
- Acute presentations, though less common, can occur due to partial tendon lacerations.
Observation:
- A four-year-old girl presented with an inability to flex her index finger.
- Surgical exploration revealed a closed partial rupture of the flexor digitorum profundus tendon.
- The injured tendon was caught on the A2 pulley, obstructing normal gliding.
Findings:
- Excision of the damaged tendon segment successfully restored normal gliding motion.
- The patient achieved full, painless motion after wound healing.
Implications:
- Partial flexor tendon injury is an uncommon cause of acute trigger finger.
- Surgical intervention confirms diagnosis and excises damaged segments, preserving hand strength and function.
Background:
Trigger finger is a common condition, causing impaired gliding of the digital flexor tendons. Chronic inflammation is the usual cause, but acute trigger finger following partial tendon laceration has also been described.
Methods:
We describe the case of a four year old girl who presented with inability to flex her index finger. Operative exploration revealed a closed partial rupture of the flexor digitorum profundus tendon, catching on the A2 pulley and preventing normal tendon gliding.
Results:
Excision of the damaged section of tendon allowed normal gliding motion, and once the wound had healed the patient regained full painless motion.
Conclusion:
Acute trigger finger caused by partial flexor tendon injury is an uncommon but well-documented presentation. Surgical exploration not only confirms the diagnosis, but allows for excision of the damaged segment to return normal movement without compromising strength.
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