Utility of ultrasound imaging in the diagnosis of postoperative complications following upper extremity tendon repair

Abstract

Operated tendons are impacted by an inciting trauma and the subsequent treatment and will never again appear as they were prior to the insult. Post-operative tendons have unique ultrasound (US) findings that can be helpful to the surgeon in evaluating the success of repair, status of healing and confirmation that the repair remains intact. The advantage of US over physical exam or other imaging modalities is that it offers both static and dynamic assessment. The latter is of particular benefit in evaluating tendon function and gliding, which are meant to be visualized dynamically in order to provide information for the hand surgeon in defining the post-operative course. The goal of the pictorial review is to comprehensively present the US findings for postoperative complications in this field including tendon rupture, gapping, adhesion, suture granuloma and pulley disruption. Competence with ultrasound-assisted diagnosis in these domains can provide prompt feedback for providers and insight to improve patient care.