Flexor Tendon Repair: Avoidance and Management of Complications.

Hand Clin · Aug 2023 · Review

Jo S, Dy CJ

Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Washington University in St. Louis, St Louis

Hand & Upper Extremity

SUMMARY — THE REDUCTIONThis review discusses strategies to prevent and manage flexor tendon repair complications like rupture and adhesions, emphasizing that a strong, gap-free repair is key to enabling safe early motion.
Abstract, as published

The proper technique for flexor tendon repair has been well established through numerous bench science and clinical studies. However, less is known about strategies to avoid and manage postoperative complications. This article discusses the common complications after flexor tendon repair, such as repair site rupture and adhesion formation. This article also addresses strategies to prevent and manage these complications. The foundation for preventing many of these complications is ensuring a strong repair without gapping at time zero, which will enable the accrual of tensile strength through early initiation of motion.

Featured in the 2026-08-05 issue.

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