Flexor tendon graft through intact superficialis tendon

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Hand Surgery
• Reconstructive Surgery

Background:

• Flexor profundus tendon injuries can lead to significant loss of finger function.
• Previous surgical techniques for flexor profundus reconstruction have varied outcomes.
• Free tendon grafts offer a potential solution for restoring flexor profundus function.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of free tendon grafts in reconstructing the flexor profundus mechanism.
• To assess functional outcomes based on specific criteria for satisfactory results.
• To identify patient and injury characteristics that predict successful outcomes.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of 25 patients undergoing flexor profundus reconstruction with free tendon grafts over 14 years.
• Graft placement involved passing through or alongside the intact superficialis tendon.
• Outcomes were evaluated using defined criteria for finger flexion, distal joint flexion, and proximal interphalangeal/distal interphalangeal joint extension.

Main Results:

• Twenty out of 25 patients (80%) achieved satisfactory functional results.
• Satisfactory outcomes were defined by specific range of motion and flexion criteria.
• Four patients had unsatisfactory results, and one remained unchanged.

Conclusions:

• Free tendon grafting is an effective method for reconstructing the flexor profundus mechanism.
• Selected patients aged 10-21 with limber joints and minimal scarring can benefit significantly.
• Adequate superficialis tendon function is crucial for optimal outcomes in this patient group.