Pediatric Flexor Tendon Injuries.

Hand Clin · May 2023 · Review

Starr BW, Cornwall R

Division of Orthopedic Surgery, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, 3333 Burnet Avenue

Hand & Upper Extremity Pediatric Orthopaedics

SUMMARY — THE REDUCTIONPediatric flexor tendon injuries require age-appropriate examination, delayed diagnosis management, and tailored postoperative protocols for successful outcomes.
Abstract, as published

The diagnosis and management of pediatric flexor tendon injuries present unique challenges to the hand surgeon. Examination of young children is not always straightforward, and tendon lacerations are frequently diagnosed late--sometimes weeks or months after the inciting injury. Four- and six-strand repair techniques are supported by recent literature, though the surgeon must remain diligent to ensure gliding of a bulky repair in a narrow tendon sheath. Beyond the operating room, postoperative management must be tailored to accommodate nuances specific to patient age and behavioral development. A fluid, patient-specific approach to every stage of management is critical for the successful treatment of pediatric flexor tendon injuries.

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