Publication:

Prognostic indicators affecting functional outcome in Zone II flexor tendon repairs

Background Advances in surgical technique and rehabilitation have transformed zone II flexor tendon injuries from an inoperable no man's land to a standard surgical procedure. Despite these advances, many patients develop a substantial range of motion limiting adhesions after primary flexor tendon repair. To analyze the prognostic indicators, which influence the functional outcome in Zone II Flexor tendon injuries in fingers.

Methods 21 patients with 28 Zone II Flexor Tendon Injuries who presented to us within 24 hours since the injury and repaired primarily were studied. Postoperatively hand is immobilized in a dorsal POP splint for 3 weeks. Pulsed ultrasound therapy was started on day 7, and continued upto 8 weeks.

Results In the FFS Repaired group combined excellent and good results were obtained in 80% of patients. Zone II A good and excellent results were obtained in 81% of patients, whereas in II B in was 91%. In Zone II C60% of excellent and good results were obtained.

Conclusions High-frequency musculoskeletal ultrasound is a better investigation in the postoperative follow up to find out tendon adhesions and rupture and most importantly dynamic assessment.