Early active movement with relative motion flexion splint for the management of zone 1-2 flexor tendon repairs: Case series

Background There is limited literature evidence on the use of relative motion flexion splint after flexor tendon repairs. Objectives We aimed to report the clinical use of early active movement with a relative motion flexion splint and to determine the outcomes of a consecutive series in patients with zone 1-2 flexor tendon repair. Methods We included 14 patients with one-stage flexor tendon repair. An active rehabilitation program was initiated in the first week with a static dorsal block splint, which was removed in the third week, and patients started to use the relative motion flexion splint. Total active motion (TAM) of the injured finger at 8, 12, and 16 weeks after surgery was assessed as described by Strickland and Glogovac. Results The mean TAM of the injured fingers was as follows: 102.5 +/- 41.49 degrees (25 degrees-180 degrees) at week 8; 123.42 +/- 40.94 degrees (45 degrees-190 degrees) at week 12; and 148 +/- 38.18 degrees (90 degrees- 200 degrees) at week 16. Final TAM grades of the patients at week 16 were as follows: excellent (six patients); good (five patients); and fair (three patients). There were no tendon ruptures and secondary surgeries. Conclusion Early active movement and the use of relative motion flexion splint seem to be promising strategies for flexor tendon zone 1-2 repair management.