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Digital flexor sheath injury: a new diagnostic test
1Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, St John's Hospital in Howden, Livingston, West Lothian.
Annals of the Royal College of Surgeons of England
|March 1, 1995
Summary
Transthecal digital nerve blocks can diagnose flexor sheath injuries from minor finger cuts. This diagnostic method confirmed flexor sheath and tendon damage in five patients requiring hand surgery.
Area of Science:
- Hand Surgery
- Diagnostic Imaging
- Orthopedic Procedures
Background:
- Flexor sheath injuries can result from seemingly minor finger lacerations.
- Accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment and preventing long-term complications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the diagnostic utility of the transthecal digital nerve block.
- To identify flexor sheath injuries in patients with finger lacerations.
Main Methods:
- Case series describing the application of transthecal digital nerve blocks.
- Diagnostic procedure involving nerve block administration.
- Surgical exploration for confirmation of injuries.
Main Results:
- The transthecal digital nerve block proved valuable in diagnosing flexor sheath injuries.
- Five cases demonstrated the successful application of this diagnostic technique.
- Subsequent surgical exploration confirmed flexor sheath and tendon injuries in all cases.
Conclusions:
- Transthecal digital nerve block is a reliable diagnostic tool for flexor sheath injuries.
- It aids in identifying injuries associated with trivial finger lacerations.
- This technique facilitates timely and appropriate surgical intervention.