Clinical results of flexor tendon repair in zone II using a six-strand double-loop technique compared with a two-strand technique.

The clinical and functional results of 46 patients who underwent zone II flexor tendon repair using the Lim/Tsai technique combined with the Kleinert/Duran early active mobilisation regime and place and hold exercises were assessed. The results were compared with 25 patients who were treated by the modified Kessler technique and the Kleinert/Duran regime alone. After a follow-up of 8 to 17 weeks, the Lim/Tsai group had a better grip strength and a significantly better total active motion of 141 degrees compared with 123 degrees . The rupture rates (Lim/Tsai: 1/51; Kessler: 3/26) and the extension deficits were not statistically different in the two groups. However, the complication rate was significantly lower and the average time of treatment was significantly shorter in the Lim/Tsai group. These results support the use of the Lim/Tsai six-strand repair technique in zone II flexor tendon injuries and early active mobilisation without rubber-band traction.