Early active motion after flexor tendon repair: an experimental consideration

The purpose of this experimental study was to evaluate the mechanical and histological healing of flexor tendon repairs using an earl active motion protocol. Modified six-strand Savage tendon repair technique in zone II was used. Twenty-seven lacerated flexor profundus tendons from 27 dogs were repaired and evaluated at 5, 10, 21, and 42 postoperative days. Smooth tendon gliding nas obtained in all 24 successful specimens. The gap strength values fbr the Sal age repairs improved significantly at the day 21 and day 42 specimens compared to the day 5 or dal 10 specimens. The ultimate tensile strength showed no reduction during the 3 week period of tendon healing, and significantly increased at the day. 42 specimens. Histologically, there was evidence of progressive healing without surrounding adhesions. The multi-strand suture technique have the potential to withstand the stress produced by active digital motion protocol.