Running Interlocking Horizontal Mattress-A New Technique versus Modified Kessler in Extensor Tendon Injuries: A...

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Hand Surgery
• Traumatology

Background:

• Tendon repair techniques aim to withstand early mobilization forces to prevent stiffness.
• Traditional methods like the modified Kessler technique have limitations in achieving optimal outcomes.
• A need exists for robust extensor tendon repair methods enabling early controlled motion.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate a novel running interlocking horizontal mattress (RIHM) suture technique for traumatic extensor tendon injuries.
• To compare the efficacy of the RIHM technique against the modified Kessler technique.
• To assess the outcomes of early controlled motion protocols following these repair methods.

Main Methods:

• A prospective randomized interventional study involving 30 patients over 18 months.
• Repair of 103 extensor tendons: 58 with modified Kessler and 45 with RIHM technique.
• Postoperative early controlled motion protocol and evaluation using Miller's criteria.

Main Results:

• The RIHM group achieved excellent (53.3%) and good (46.67%) results.
• The modified Kessler group predominantly showed fair (80%) and good (20%) results, with no excellent outcomes.
• RIHM demonstrated significantly better patient outcomes compared to the modified Kessler technique.

Conclusions:

• The running interlocking horizontal mattress (RIHM) suture is an effective and easy-to-learn technique for extensor tendon repair.
• RIHM offers superior functional results compared to the modified Kessler technique.
• This technique supports early mobilization, leading to improved recovery in traumatic extensor tendon injuries.