Publication:

Extensor tendon injuries in zone VI – surgical repair and functional outcomes: a case report

Extensor tendon injuries in Zone VI of the hand are common and generally offer favorable conditions for primary repair because of the larger tendon caliber and lower anatomical complexity. Optimal functional recovery depends on appropriate surgical technique, suture selection, and postoperative rehabilitation. We report the case of a 35-year-old man with complete laceration of the extensor digitorum communis tendons of the third, fourth, and fifth digits following a sharp traumatic injury. Primary repair was performed using a modified Kessler technique with a 3-0 nylon core suture and a continuous 4-0 nylon epitendinous suture. A review of the recent literature on Zone VI extensor tendon injuries, including technical and biomechanical considerations, was also conducted. This case supports current evidence that combining core and epitendinous sutures, together with a thorough understanding of tendon anatomy and biomechanics and the implementation of early rehabilitation protocols, provides reliable restoration of extensor function and favorable clinical outcomes in Zone VI tendon injuries.