Techniques for Retrieval of Lacerated Flexor Tendons: A Scoping Review

Abstract

Introduction: Flexor tendon laceration is often followed by retraction of the proximal stump. The goals of this review were to describe the myriad of proximal stump retrieval surgical techniques and where available to provide the clinical evidence associated with each. Methods: A Medline and Web of Science search was performed to identify any publication whose primary purpose was to describe a tendon retrieval technique. The techniques were assigned to 8 groups. Clinical outcomes, where reported, and advantages and disadvantages of the technique as reported by the authors of the articles were analyzed. Results: Eight-hundred and forty-one publications complied with the search terms, and 33 articles were included in the current analysis. Only 2 of these articles were randomized controlled trials, and they were of low quality. Conclusion: There is no high-quality evidence to allow quantitative comparison of tendon retrieval techniques. An incremental approach can be recommended based on the qualitative review. After failed atraumatic attempts to retrieve the tendon by milking, retrieval should be done through proximal incision at the A1 pulley level, preferably without pulling the tendon out of the wound. When available, using an endoscope to retrieve the tendon appears to be a promising alternative.