Flexor Digitorum Superficialis Tendon Injuries in Zone II (to Repair or Not)

Abstract

Background: Attaining favorable functional results after flexor tendon repair in zone II has always been a complex task. This is primarily due to the cramped positioning of the flexor digitorum profundus (FDP) and the two slips of theflexor digitorum superficialis (FDS) within a narrow fibro-osseous tunnel. Such a confined space significantly increasesthe risk of postoperative adhesions and consequent limitations in postoperative range of motion and strength. The primary objectives of tendon restoration revolve around enhancingtendon healing and minimizing adhesion formation. Objective: The objective of this study is to evaluate the clinical outcomes after surgery by assessing postoperative range of motion (ROM) and radiological findings using Musculoskeletal Ultrasound (MSK US). Specifically, we aim to compare the results between cases where both the flexordigitorum profundus (FDP) and flexor digitorum superficialis(FDS) tendons are repaired in Zone II flexor tendon injuries, and cases where only the FDP tendon is repaired. Additionally, we will examine the formation of granulation tissue as aparameter in our evaluation. Patients and Methods: This interventional clinical trial involves a total of fifty individuals who have experienced flexor tendon injuries in zone II. The patients were selected from those who underwent surgery at El Dmerdash Hospital, based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria outlined in our study. A random sampling method was employed to divide the patients into two groups. Group I consist of twenty-fivepatients (the study group) who underwent repair of both theflexor digitorum profundus (FDP