Passive mobilization for restoring hand function after surgical flexor tendon and ulnar nerve repair

Abstract

Objective To explore the effects of early active mobilization on hand function after zone 5 flexor tendon and ulnar nerve repair. Methods Fifty-five patients who had received primary repair in zone 5 of a flexor tendon and the ulnar nerve were randomly divided into an observation group (26 cases, 88 digits) and a control group (27 cases, 91 digits). Both groups were given routine treatment after the operation, and started to do active and passive exercise 4 weeks later. The observation group was additionally forced to do active range of motion exercise training starting 8 days after the operation. Twelve weeks after the operation, the hand function of both groups was assessed using the total active motion (TAM) scoring system of the American Society for Surgery of the Hand, peripheral nerve function evaluation and the disabilities of arm-shoulder-hand (DASH) scale. Results At the end of the treatment, the average TAM score of the observation group was significantly better than that of the control group. The average active movement range of the wrist in palm flexion, dorsal extension, ulnar deviation and in radial deviation were all significantly better than in the control group. Grip strength, overall hand function and DASH score were also significantly better on average. Conclusion Early active mobilization following flexor tendon and ulnar nerve repair can effectively promote the recovery of hand function. Key words: Flexor tendons; Ulnar nerve; Rehabilitation; Active mobilization