Postoperative management of flexor tenolysis.

A new protocol for the postoperative management of flexor tenolysis is described. The protocol incorporates immediate active flexing of the affected digit into the palm and then holding of the digit in this position as new adhesions are formed. It is hypothesized that mechanical tearing of these early adhesions is then accomplished by passive extension of the digit. Flexor tenolysis using this protocol was performed on 23 fingers in 17 patients. Results were calculated, according to Strickland's formula, for 15 patients (20 fingers), who were followed from 6 months to 1 year postoperatively. Results were excellent in 18 fingers, fair in 1, and poor in 1.