Recovery of rock climbing performance after surgical reconstruction of finger pulleys

Abstract

This study evaluated recovery of sport performance and correction of bowstringing after surgical reconstruction of closed finger pulley rupture in high-level rock climbers. A total of 38 patients treated with an extensor retinaculum graft were assessed. The mean follow-up time was 85 months, and 30 patients returned to their previous climbing level. The mean total active motion score was 96% of the opposite side. All patients had an excellent Buck-Gramcko score. There was no significant difference in grip strength and tip pinch strength in the crimp position between the injured side and the opposite side. A total of 31 patients were examined with ultrasonography. In 18, flexor bowstringing effects had returned to near-normal values. There was an association between rock climbing level recovery and the flexor bowstringing correction (odds ratio, 6.9; 95% confidence interval, 1.1–42.8). If flexor bowstringing was corrected, patients were more likely to regain their preinjury sport performance. The ultrasonography measurement was a useful tool for predicting functional recovery. Level of evidence: 4