The role of flexor tenolysis in the palm and digits

Seventy-seven digitis in 70 patients undergoing a technique of thorough flexor tenolysis, with instillation of local triamcinolone, and immediate motion were studied. Classification of the results utilized a method which determined the percentage of passive joint flexion potential actively achieved and by a second system which graded the results in the finger as a whole. A further categorization into three patient groups, depending on the etiology of the tendon adhesions, was carried out. Using these classifications 84% or the proximal interphalangeal joints, 86% of the distal interphalangeal joints, and 80% of the fingers as a whole were improved by this procedure. These results were comparable or superior to those of other published reports. Improvement in digital flexion was consistent, often with restoration of near-normal function. The incidence of tendon rupture, infection, and delayed wound healing have not been great.