[Replacement of flexor digitorum profundus tendons by transfer of flexor superficialis tendons. An anatomical study]

To date, the functional results of surgical treatment of flexor tendons lesions, particularly secondary repair, usually remain disappointing. However, experience has shown that tendon transfers, particularly for restoration of thumb flexion, constantly gives good results. In this anatomical study, the hands of 3 fresh cadavers were dissected in order to study the length of superficial flexor tendons prior to advancement on the same finger to replace the deep flexor or their transfer to adjacent long fingers in the case of destruction of both flexor tendons. The authors observed that, with the exception of the superficial flexor of the little finger, the other 3 superficial flexors can be used for advancement or transfer, either alone or associated with proximal elongation according to Rouhier's technique. The advantages and disadvantages of this method are discussed and compared with other deep flexor repair techniques (free graft, vascularized graft).