The Use of Monofilaments to Assess and Treat Altered Sensory Mapping of the Face Following Upper Limb CRPS

Abstract

vations we conducted this cadaveric experiment to identify location specific adhesions and their effect on joint motion. Methods: To simulate zone II adhesions a fresh cadaver was dissected. The experiment was completed in three phases. The first phase consisted of simulating adhesion by suturing the long finger flexor tendons (FDS and FDP) together in the location where profundus is inferior to superficialis. The second phase consisted of simulating adhesions by suturing the long finger flexor tendons were superficialis is lateral to profundus. The third phase consisted on suturing the long finger flexor tendons together were the superficial is posterior to profundus. In order to simulate active long finger digital flexion both of the tendons of the FDS and FDP were simultaneously pulled proximally at the level of the forearm. Results: This experiment revealed that limitations in digital motion following zone II repair is dependent on the precise location of tendon adhesion. Phase one of this cadaveric experiment produced limitations in both PIP and DIP joint flexion. Phase two demonstrated minimal limitation in PIP joint flexion, however, DIP joint flexion was limited. Phase three revealed that the DIP joint demonstrated minimal flexion deficit. Conclusion: This cadaveric experiment simulated flexor tendon adhesions at three levels within Zone II. This experiment revealed that limitations in digital motion following zone II repair will be dependant on the precise location of tendon adhesions within this zone.