Comparison of impairment and restitution of hand function in a group of patients with total damage to the extensor pollicis longus and in a group of patients with damage to the flexor pollicis longus tendon after surgical treatment

Abstract

The thumb constitutes 40% of the whole hand function, and damage to the extensor pollicis longus (EPL) and/or the flexor pollicis longus (FPL) tendons of the thumb results in its significant limitation. The main factors contributing to damage of the EPL and/or FPL tendons are mechanical injuries - cuts and spontaneous ruptures. The aim of the study was to compare values of thumb and whole hand function loss and restoration as a result of the implemented physical therapy in patients with total damage to the EPL tendon with the values obtained by the study group 2 comprised of patients with damage to the FPL tendon. The study involved 25 patients of the Specialized Hand Therapy Center in Krakow. 15 of them had ruptured continuity of the EPL tendon (study group), and 10 suffered damage to the FPL tendons (control group). The study included measurements of active motion of the thumb and wrist and superficial sensation. On the basis of these tests, functional impairment was measured using the methodology according to Swanson. The study included assessment of muscle strength in terms of global and precision grips using a dynamometer. Statistically signifcant functional improvement was noted for the thumb and whole hand as well as muscle strength in both groups. The values of functional loss differed between the two groups. The indicators of functional improvement were greater in patients with damage to the EPL tendon. Functional physical therapy is an important factor determining the return of function in the thumb and whole hand after total damage to the EPL and FPL tendons. Szczechowicz J., Jamka K., Pieniążek M. Comparison of impairment and restitution of hand function in a group of patients with total damage to the extensor pollicis longus and in a group of patients with damage to the flexor pollicis longus tendon after surgical treatment. Med Rehabil 2016; 20(3): 5-12. DOI: 10.5604/01.3001.0009.5009