Pseudotendon formation after flexor tendon injury.

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic surgery
• Regenerative medicine
• Biomaterials science

Background:

• Flexor tendon injuries often result in significant functional deficits.
• Biologic repair mechanisms can lead to scar tissue formation.
• Understanding scar tissue properties is crucial for effective treatment.

Observation:

• Scar tissue can bridge divided flexor tendons, creating a structure termed a "pseudotendon".
• Intraoperative differentiation of pseudotendons from normal tendons is possible.
• Pseudotendons exhibit a distinct light gray color and lack a glistening surface compared to normal tendons.

Findings:

• Pseudotendons represent a biologic reconstitution of tendon defects by scar tissue.
• The tensile strength of pseudotendons is significantly inferior to that of native tendons.
• This reduced mechanical integrity compromises functional restoration.

Implications:

• Pseudotendons necessitate surgical intervention for restoring hand function.
• Tendon grafting or tendon transfer are viable surgical options to replace deficient pseudotendons.
• Accurate intraoperative assessment is key to appropriate treatment planning for flexor tendon injuries.