Flexor Tenolysis

Problem

  • The flexor tendons are stuck down in the tunnel system causing restriction in range of movement.

Cause

  • Adhesions have formed between the tendon and surrounding pulley system. This usually occurs after tendon lacerations have been repaired for significant injury to the fingers.

Diagnosis

  • There is a lack of active flexion, re the patients arm muscle power.
  • The fingers can usually be passively flexed, by the other arm, or by the hand therapist.

Treatment

  • Hand therapy – work at trying to maximize gains of active flexion in keeping the finger joints supple.
  • If no progress is made after three to six months, surgery is recommended.
  • Surgery – GA – day surgery
    • Opening of the finger via a volar approach
    • Division of adhesions by surgical dissection
    • Early hand therapy post operatively to maximize surgical gains.

Potential Complications

  • Infection, haematoma, neurovascular injury, further stiffening and adhesions.

Post Op Care

  • Light dressings and then to hand therapy to push active and passive range of motion for up to three months.
University Of Auckland Auckland Born Joint Surgery Fracs NZOA  University Of Auckland Auckland Born Joint Surgery Fracs