Early active mobilization for extensor tendon injuries. The Norwich regime

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Hand Surgery
• Rehabilitation Medicine

Background:

• Dynamic splinting improves extensor tendon repair outcomes but uses complex, cumbersome devices.
• Existing protocols for dynamic splinting can be difficult to follow for patients.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of controlled active mobilization without dynamic splinting for extensor tendon repairs.
• To compare functional outcomes of this simplified approach with traditional dynamic splinting methods.

Main Methods:

• A prospective study involving patients with extensor tendon injuries.
• Implementing a protocol of controlled active mobilization post-surgery, avoiding dynamic splinting.
• Assessing functional outcomes at six weeks after repair.

Main Results:

• Excellent or good function was achieved in 22 of 24 simple extensor tendon injuries.
• Excellent or good function was achieved in 11 of 13 complex extensor tendon injuries.
• Outcomes were comparable to those reported with dynamic splinting.

Conclusions:

• Controlled active mobilization without dynamic splinting is a viable and effective treatment for extensor tendon repairs.
• This method simplifies post-operative care and achieves comparable functional results to dynamic splinting.
• The technique avoids the need for complex outrigger splinting, making it easier for patients to adhere to.