[Long-term results of 2-stage flexor tendon grafting]

The authors report the results of 85 two-stage tendon grafts (with Silastic rod preparation and subsequent tendon grafting) in which the evaluation was based upon the classification of Buck-Gramcko. The time between the end of treatment and physical evaluation varied from three to six years. The interpretation of the results was based on the analysis of the preoperative state according to the nature of the lesion and the severity of the injury (Boyes/Hunter). No distinct correlation between the type of injury and the functional results was found. In contrast a clear relationship was found between the final results and the preoperative state--good, scar, joint, multiple, salvage (Boyes/Hunter)--especially when nerves were involved. The high number of bad results even in cases with an excellent preoperative state is important for a critical approach to the technique. Nevertheless, in appropriate cases the method is undoubtedly of value.