Functional evaluation and influencing factor analysis after repair of zone V flexor tendon injury

Abstract

Objective To evaluate the functional outcome after repair of zone V flexor tendon and to identify the relevant factors affecting the outcome. Methods A total of 52 patients ( 163 fingers) with wrist lacerations involving zone V flexor tendon from September 2003 to July 2009 were retrospectively studied.The average follow-up period was 32 months.The lacerated tendons were repaired by using three suture methods of different strands.Functional outcome was assessed by determining the active range of motion (AROM),and grip and pinch strength of the injured fingers,testing the independent flexor digitorum superficialis (FDS) action and employing the disability of arm,shoulder,and hand (DASH) questionnaire.Influencing factors for function of the repaired tendon including laceration section levels,repair methods,surgeons' experience,and injury severity were analyzed statistically. Results Functionally,146 out of 163 fingers (89.6％) achieved excellent or good range of motion and 103 out of 147 fingers with FDS injury (70.1％ ) obtained independent FDS action.Grip and pinch strength recovered to about two-thirds of the uninjured level.The mean DASH score was 11.9.Patients had adverse functional outcorme in tendons repaired with the 2-strand Kessler,in the tendons repaired by the surgeons with low level of expertise,or in the wrists with Spaghetti injuries,but levels of laceration section had no significant influence on the outcomes. Conclusions Functional recovery of zone V flexor tendon injuries is generally good,but repair methods,levels of expertise of surgeons,and injury severity have significant influences on the outcome.Thereby,advanced levels of expertise of surgeons can effectively improve the postoperative function. Key words: Finger injuries; Tendons; Flexor tendon