Flexor Tendon Injuries –Repair and Reconstruction-Update on Zone II Flexor Tendon Injuries

Update on Zone II Flexor Tendon Injuries

Pdf Summary

This review article provides an update on zone II flexor tendon injuries and the challenges associated with their management. The article emphasizes the importance of meticulous surgical technique in order to restore tendon gliding within a tight fibro-osseous sheath while minimizing the formation of adhesions. The strength of the repair is critical to withstand early mobilization, and the number of strands crossing the repair is directly proportional to its mechanical strength.<br /><br />The article explores the biology of tendon healing and highlights the benefits of early mobilization in enhancing the strength of the repair and reducing the risk of adhesions and joint stiffness. A variety of rehabilitation protocols, including early passive and early active motion, have been shown to achieve satisfactory results, and the choice of protocol should be based on factors such as repair integrity, concurrent injuries, and patient compliance.<br /><br />The article also discusses the anatomy of the flexor tendons and the challenges associated with their repair in zone II. It addresses specific techniques for flexor digitorum superficialis (FDS) and flexor digitorum profundus (FDP) tendon repairs, including core suture placement, suture material selection, and peripheral suture placement. The importance of postoperative rehabilitation in achieving good outcomes is emphasized, and the article concludes with a discussion of potential complications and the reported outcomes of flexor tendon repair.<br /><br />Overall, this review provides a comprehensive overview of the current understanding and management of zone II flexor tendon injuries. It highlights the importance of careful surgical technique and early mobilization in achieving successful outcomes and emphasizes the need for further research to continue improving clinical results.

Keywords

zone II flexor tendon injuries

management challenges

surgical technique

tendon gliding

adhesion formation

repair strength

tendon healing biology

early mobilization benefits

rehabilitation protocols

flexor tendons anatomy