Functional reconstruction of severe hand injuries using allogeneic tendons: a retrospective study

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of allogeneic tendons for functional reconstruction of severe hand injuries.

Methods: From August 2007 to July 2014, we performed functional reconstruction with tendon allografts for severe hand injuries affecting two or more tendons. At the final follow-up, we assessed total active motion (TAM); pincer pinch strength; grip strength; Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) score; degree of satisfaction; and adhesion. We measured the white blood cell count, C-reactive protein concentration, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, total T-cell count, and CD4⁺T/CD8⁺T ratio to evaluate the immune response and check for infection.

Results: Ten patients received 26 allogeneic tendons to reconstruct hand function. The average follow-up period was 50.0 months (range, 24-82 months). The TAM was 126.4° (12°-253°), pincer pinch strength was 0.83 kg (0-4.5 kg), and grip strength was 13.69 kg (4-41.5 kg). The DASH score was 14.25 (3.3-30.8), and seven and three patients were satisfied and partially satisfied, respectively. One patient developed tendon adhesion. All immune and infectious parameters were within the reference range.

Conclusion: Functional reconstruction using allogeneic tendons for severe hand injuries with multiple tendon defects was effective and safe; however, more research is needed.

Keywords: Allograft; function; hand; reconstruction; severe injury; tendon.