Effect of Dynamic Hand Splint on Hand ROM Post Extensor Tendon Repair

Effect of Dynamic Hand Splint on Hand ROM Post Extensor Tendon Repair

The purpose of the study was to evaluate the effectiveness of dynamic hand splint on hand range of motion following extensor tendon repair.

The extensor muscles to the digits are weaker; their capacity for work and their amplitude of glide are less than those of their flexor antagonists, yet they require a latitude of motion that is not necessary for flexor function. Extensor tendons are thinner and broader than flexor tendons. They are superficial in comparison with the flexor tendons, allowing adhesion to the fascial layers and skin. They have a broad tendon-to-bone interface that can result in dense adhesions. Shortening of the extensor tendon because of surgery may result in difficulty regaining full flexion. Dorsal swelling may prevent the tendons from gliding. Recreating the normal balance between intrinsic and extrinsic muscle/tendon units can be a challenging task for surgeons and therapists following extensor tendon injury. Common functional complications include loss of flexion, extensor lag, and decreased grip strength. To prevent these complications, extensor tendon approaches, similar to flexor tendon approaches, have evolved to include controlled passive and active mobilization using a dynamic splint immediately following surgery

Inclusion Criteria:

• Patients are both males and females.
• Their age will be in the range of 20-40 years.
• All patients suffering from extensor tendon injuries in zone 5 or 6.
• All patients undergo extensor tendon repair surgery.
• All patients will begin the treatment program from the third week post-operative.
• All patients enrolled in the study will have their informed consent.

Exclusion Criteria:

• The potential participants will be excluded if they meet one of the following criteria:
• Patients with associated diseases (diabetes mellitus, infectious diseases, autoimmune disease) that will interfere with the healing process.
• Patients taking medication that alters the healing process (e.g., corticosteroids, chemotherapy, or radiation).
• Pregnancy or epilepsy.
• Elderly patients.
• Skin disease.