Early active mobilization after flexor tendon repairs.

Traditional methods of treatment for flexor tendon injuries required cumbersome splinting and a high degree of patient compliance to prevent joint contractures of adherent tendons. In Belfast in 1985 a pilot study was set up to investigate the feasibility of simple splinting of the hand and full-range passive movement into flexion and extension, with active movement of the repaired tendon commencing within 48 hours of surgery. The study was repeated in Sheffield, which confirmed the methodology established in Belfast. This report describes the treatment regimen and summarizes the results of three studies undertaken. It is concluded that the key to the success of early active mobilization is the simplicity of the regimen for both patient and staff, with only one plaster application requiring no alteration throughout the treatment, thus providing a safe environment for patients to undertake full passive and active movements from 48 hours post repair.