Postoperative management of extensor tendon repairs in zones V, VI, and VII

Abstract

This paper describes the postoperative management plan for extensor tendon repair in zones V, VI, and VII as conceived by the Grenoble team. This plan includes immediate, postoperative systematic mobilization for all patients with surgical repairs in zones II through VIII. Postoperative mobilization in zones V and VI is performed under the protection of a Levame-type, dorsal steel leaf-blade spring. Depending on lesion location, proximal or distal to juncturae tendinum, Frère's three-finger rule applies. In zone VII, differential tendon gliding between the wrist and finger extensors and surrounding tissue is accomplished with a Tom splint, which gives individual extension assistance to each digit and the wrist while limiting flexion.