A Silent Closed Rupture of the Flexor Digitorum Profundus on the Index Finger: An Unsolved Mystery

Abstract

We report the case of a patient who fully recovered from a closed flexor tendon rupture through a two-stage flexor tendon reconstruction using silicone rods, despite a considerable delay in treatment. A 17-year-old male patient visited our clinic with a sudden inability to flex his left index finger, although there were no signs of injury. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed an extensive rupture of the flexor digitorum profundus from the base of the distal phalanx to the proximal phalangeal joint of his left hand. After a two-stage tendon graft operation was performed, the patient regained full flexion of the index finger and was able to hold a fist without any limitations in range of motion. Complete rupture of tendons usually accompanies history of trauma or underlying tendon pathology. In our case, however, the tendon rupture occurred silently with no obvious underlying causes. It is important to recognize the signs to evaluate the underlying structures for appropriate management and treatment. Even with considerable delay, the patient may regain full function of the tendon.