Outcomes of 218 primary single-finger flexor tendon repairs up to 1 year after surgery: a multicentre cohort study

Abstract

In this retrospective multicentre cohort study, we present the results of primary single-finger flexor tendon repairs in zones 1 to 3 between 2014 and 2021. Data from 218 patients were retrieved with their demographics, injury and surgery characteristics and therapy outcomes. The data were systematically collected and analysed at predefined time points up to 1 year after surgery. A good to excellent return of motion was achieved by 77% (Tang classification) and 92% (American Association for Surgery of the Hand classification) of patients at 1 year. The tendon rupture rate was 8.7%. Time had a significant impact on the recovery of finger motion and grip strength of up to 1 year, of patient satisfaction and upper extremity function up to 26 weeks, and of pain up to 13 weeks after surgery. Our results demonstrate that it is worthwhile to assess therapy outcomes over various measurement periods, as some outcomes may continue to improve up to 1 year after flexor tendon repair surgery. Level of evidence: III