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Flexor tendon repair in the neonate
Annals of Plastic Surgery
|November 1, 1982
Summary
Delayed primary repair of flexor tendon lacerations in neonates can achieve excellent functional results. This case highlights successful surgical management in a 10-day-old infant, emphasizing the role of experienced surgeons and specialized medical centers.
Area of Science:
- Hand surgery
- Neonatal care
- Orthopedic surgery
Background:
- Primary or delayed primary repair of flexor tendon injuries within the digital sheath is standard practice for hand surgeons.
- Previous literature documented the youngest patient treated for such an injury at 3 months old.
Observation:
- A case of flexor tendon laceration occurred in a neonate during an emergency cesarean section delivery.
- Delayed primary repair was performed 10 days post-delivery.
Findings:
- The neonate underwent delayed primary repair of the flexor tendon laceration.
- Five months post-surgery, the patient demonstrated good to excellent functional outcomes.
- The use of an operating microscope was beneficial for the neonatal tendon repair.
Implications:
- This case demonstrates the feasibility and success of delayed primary flexor tendon repair in neonates.
- Specialized medical centers with experienced hand surgeons and neonatal anesthesia/OR staff are crucial for optimal outcomes.
- Neonatal flexor tendon repair can yield excellent results with a single, definitive surgical procedure.