Active mobilisation following single cross grasp four-strand flexor tenorrhaphy (Adelaide repair)

J Hand Surg Eur Vol. 2011 Jul;36(6):467-75. doi: 10.1177/1753193411405937. Epub 2011 Apr 18.

Abstract

This paper presents our initial experience using a single cross grasp, four-strand repair with an active mobilization regimen in a general trauma hospital setting. Variably experienced members of the trauma service of a large general hospital used a four-strand single cross grasp tenorrhaphy technique for acute repair of 73 zone one and two flexor digitorum profundus tendon lacerations in 53 patients. Postoperatively, all patients commenced an active mobilization program within 12 hours of the surgical repair. With a minimum 3 months post-repair follow-up of 89% of the repaired flexor digitorum profundus tendons, 71% of fingers achieved a good or excellent outcome. There were three (4.6%) flexor digitorum profundus ruptures post surgery. A four-strand single cross grasp repair using 3-0 braided polyester suture and active post-repair mobilization can achieve satisfactory outcomes in the general trauma service setting; however, patient compliance remains a problem.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study

MeSH terms

  • Exercise Therapy / methods*
  • Finger Injuries / surgery*
  • Humans
  • Nylons
  • Polyethylene Terephthalates
  • Polypropylenes
  • Postoperative Care / methods*
  • Postoperative Complications / etiology
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Rupture
  • Splints
  • Suture Techniques*
  • Tendon Injuries / surgery*
  • Wound Healing / physiology

Substances

  • Ethibond
  • Nylons
  • Polyethylene Terephthalates
  • Polypropylenes