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Vikhe CS, Ramteke SU, Jaiswal PR. Crushing Consequences: A Case Report on the Rehabilitation of a Middle Phalangeal Fracture in an Industrial Incident. Cureus 2024; 16:e63965. [PMID: 39104993 PMCID: PMC11299469 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.63965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2024] [Accepted: 07/06/2024] [Indexed: 08/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Hand injuries, particularly fractures involving the phalanges and metacarpals, are common occurrences in various settings, including industrial environments. Prompt and effective management of these injuries is crucial to minimize long-term disability and facilitate return to work. This case report focuses on the rehabilitation of a middle phalangeal fracture in an industrial worker following Kirschner wire (K-wire) fixation. The patient, a 24-year-old male, sustained the injury while operating an electric stamping machine. Emergency surgery was performed to stabilize the fracture, and subsequent physiotherapy was initiated due to persistent difficulties in hand function. The rehabilitation protocol aimed to address pain, improve range of motion, and enhance grip strength through passive range of motion exercises, movement with mobilization techniques, blocking exercises, and grip strengthening exercises. Mulligan's mobilization with movement (MWM) concept was incorporated to facilitate rapid pain relief and movement restoration. Follow-up assessments after four weeks of rehabilitation revealed significant improvements in pain levels, range of motion, strength, and overall quality of life. The case underscores the importance of timely intervention and comprehensive rehabilitation strategies in managing traumatic hand injuries in industrial settings, aiming to optimize treatment outcomes and promote successful return to work.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chaitali S Vikhe
- Sports Physiotherapy, Ravi Nair Physiotherapy College, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education & Research, Wardha, IND
| | - Swapnil U Ramteke
- Sports Physiotherapy, Ravi Nair Physiotherapy College, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education & Research, Wardha, IND
| | - Pratik R Jaiswal
- Sports Physiotherapy, Ravi Nair Physiotherapy College, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education & Research, Wardha, IND
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Lalonde DH, Gruber MM, Ahmad AA, Langer MF, Sepehripour S. New Frontiers in Wide-Awake Surgery. Plast Reconstr Surg 2024; 153:1212e-1223e. [PMID: 38810165 DOI: 10.1097/prs.0000000000011414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2024]
Abstract
LEARNING OBJECTIVES After studying this article, the participant should be able to: 1. Explain the most important benefits of wide-awake surgery to patients. 2. Tumesce large parts of the body with minimal pain local anesthesia injection technique to eliminate the need for sedation for many operations. 3. Apply tourniquet-free surgery to upper and lower limb operations to avoid the sedation required to tolerate tourniquet pain. 4. Move many procedures out of the main operating room to minor procedure rooms with no increase in infection rates to decrease unnecessary cost and solid waste in surgery. SUMMARY Three disruptive innovations are changing the landscape of surgery: (1) minimally painful injection of large-volume, low-concentration tumescent local anesthesia eliminates the need for sedation for many procedures over the entire body; (2) epinephrine vasoconstriction in tumescent local anesthesia is a good alternative to the tourniquet and proximal nerve blocks in extremity surgery (sedation for tourniquet pain is no longer required for many procedures); and (3) evidence-based sterility and the elimination of sedation enable many larger procedures to move out of the main operating room into minor procedure rooms with no increase in infection rates. This continuing medical education article explores some of the new frontiers in which these changes affect surgery all over the body.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Martin F Langer
- the Clinic for Trauma, Hand, and Reconstructive Surgery, University Clinic Muenster
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Degreef I, Lalonde DH. WALANT surgery of the hand: state of the art. EFORT Open Rev 2024; 9:349-356. [PMID: 38726975 PMCID: PMC11099575 DOI: 10.1530/eor-24-0033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Wide-awake local anesthesia no tourniquet is named the WALANT technique. WALANT has had a major positive impact on cost, convenience, ecology, patient satisfaction, access to surgical care, and outcomes in hand surgery in the last 20 years. Safe and efficient application of the technique is based on two principles. The first principle is the tumescent injection of a large volume low concentration 0.25-1% lidocaine, with 1:100 000-1:400 000 epinephrine. The second principle of WALANT is that the proper injection should be almost painless, with the patient only feeling the first needle poke of a tiny 30G needle. This wide awake patient approach reduces pain, neuropraxia, and systemic side effects of sedation with preservation of motor control, thereby aiding balanced reconstruction in hand surgery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilse Degreef
- Department of Orthopaedic, Hand Unit, Leuven University Hospitals, Gasthuisberg, Herestraat, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Donald H Lalonde
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Dalhousie University, Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada
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Brenac C, Pithioux M, Tomczak S, Lallemand M, Jaloux C, de Villeneuve Bargemon JB. Biomechanical evaluation of the ST-knot: A new suture for flexor tendon repair. HAND SURGERY & REHABILITATION 2024; 43:101650. [PMID: 38301768 DOI: 10.1016/j.hansur.2024.101650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2023] [Revised: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Although tendon lacerations are common, there is currently no consensus on choice of suture. Easy and fast sutures that impart enough strength to allow mobilization are needed. This study compared the ex vivo biomechanical strength (force required to create a 2 mm tendon gap) of a novel suture (ST-knot) with that of a conventional suture (double Kessler). MATERIALS AND METHODS Forty fresh deep flexor tendons from porcine forelimbs were used. Both repaired tendon ends were mounted on standard traction jaws of an axial traction machine at an initial distance of 40 mm for all tendons. A high-definition camera was used to determine the force forming a 2 mm gap. Ten tendons in group 1 (ST-knot) and 10 in group 2 (double Kessler) were prepared with PDS 4.0 (single thread for Kessler, double thread for ST-knot). Tendons in groups 3 (ST-knot) and 4 (double Kessler) were repaired with PDS 1.0 using the same principle. RESULTS There was no significant difference in the force required to form a 2 mm tendon gap between groups 1 and 2, and this trend was identical when using a stronger thread in groups 3 and 4. The maximum force before rupture, mode of repair failure, stress and stiffness were also comparable, with no significant differences between groups 1 and 2, or between groups 3 and 4. CONCLUSIONS The ST-knot showed comparable results to the double-Kessler knot, whichever the thread used. Because it involves fewer steps than conventional techniques and is easy to perform, the ST-knot may offer a therapeutic solution, particularly in complex trauma with multiple tendon injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camille Brenac
- Hospices Civils de Lyon, Hôpital Croix Rousse, Service de Chirurgie Plastique, Esthétique et Réparatrice, Lyon F-69003, France.
| | - Martine Pithioux
- Aix Marseille Univ, CNRS, ISM, 13009 Marseille, France; Aix Marseille Univ, APHM, CNRS, ISM, Mecabio Platform, Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, 13009 Marseille, France; Aix Marseille Univ, APHM, CNRS, ISM, Sainte-Marguerite Hospital, Institute for Locomotion, Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, 13009 Marseille, France
| | - Sacha Tomczak
- Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Department, Hôpital Conception, AP-HM, Marseille, France
| | - Marylène Lallemand
- Ecole Centrale Marseille, 13013 Marseille, France; Aix Marseille Univ, APHM, CNRS, ISM, Mecabio Platform, Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, 13009 Marseille, France
| | - Charlotte Jaloux
- Hand Surgery and Limb Reconstructive Surgery, CHU de Timone, Aix-Marseille University, 264 Rue Saint Pierre, 13005 Marseille, France
| | - Jean Baptiste de Villeneuve Bargemon
- Hand Surgery and Limb Reconstructive Surgery, CHU de Timone, Aix-Marseille University, 264 Rue Saint Pierre, 13005 Marseille, France; Hand, Wrist and Elbow Surgery, Saint Roch Private Hospital, Toulon, 99 Avenue Saint Roch, 83100 Toulon, France
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Meng F, Baradaran A, Jaberi MM, Tran DQH, Finlayson R, Luc M, Xu L, Thibaudeau S. Patient-Reported Quality of Recovery after Local Anesthesia versus Brachial Plexus Block in Hand Surgery: A Randomized Controlled Study. Plast Reconstr Surg 2023; 152:1287-1296. [PMID: 37189224 DOI: 10.1097/prs.0000000000010688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Both local anesthesia (LA) and brachial plexus (BP) anesthesia are commonly used in hand surgery. LA has increased efficiency and reduced costs, but BP is often favored for more complex hand surgery, despite requiring greater time and resources. The primary objective of this study was to assess the quality of recovery of patients who received LA or BP block for hand surgery. Secondary objectives were to compare postoperative pain and opioid use. METHODS This randomized, controlled, noninferiority study enrolled patients undergoing surgery distal to the carpal bones. Patients were randomized to either LA (wrist or digital block) or BP block (infraclavicular block) before surgery. Patients completed the Quality of Recovery-15 questionnaire on postoperative day (POD) 1. Pain level was assessed with a numeric pain rating scale, and narcotic consumption was recorded on POD1 and POD3. RESULTS A total of 76 patients completed the study (LA, n = 46, BP, n = 30). No statistically significant difference was found for median Quality of Recovery-15 score between LA [127.5 (interquartile range, 28)] and BP block [123.5 (interquartile range, 31)]. The inferiority margin of LA to BP block at the 95% confidence interval was less than the minimal clinically important difference of 8, demonstrating noninferiority of LA compared with BP block. There was no statistically significant difference between LA and BP block for numeric pain rating scale scores or narcotic consumption on POD1 and POD3 ( P > 0.05). CONCLUSION LA is noninferior to BP block for hand surgery with regard to patient-reported quality of recovery, postoperative pain, and narcotic use. CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Therapeutic, II.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fanyi Meng
- From the Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, McGill University Health Centre
| | - Aslan Baradaran
- From the Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, McGill University Health Centre
| | - Mehrad Mojtahed Jaberi
- From the Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, McGill University Health Centre
| | - De Q H Tran
- Department of Anesthesiology, McGill University
| | | | - Mario Luc
- From the Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, McGill University Health Centre
| | - Liqin Xu
- From the Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, McGill University Health Centre
| | - Stephanie Thibaudeau
- From the Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, McGill University Health Centre
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Adams AJ, Dohse N, Miller A, Tosti R. Pulmonary Complications and Mortality in Patients with SARS-CoV-2 Undergoing Elective and Emergent Hand Surgery. J Hand Microsurg 2023; 15:371-375. [PMID: 38152673 PMCID: PMC10751195 DOI: 10.1055/s-0043-1760765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Patients acutely infected with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) may have increased risk for postsurgical pulmonary complications and mortality, particularly with general anesthesia. Surgery is often delayed to mitigate risk; however, excessive delays may result in morbidity. Optimal criteria for delaying surgery in patients with or without symptoms are unknown. This study aimed to evaluate any complications following hand surgery in patients testing positive for SARS-CoV-2. Methods We retrospectively reviewed patients with a positive polymerase chain reaction test within 60 days before or after hand surgery between March 31, 2020 and March 31, 2021. Patients were telephoned also to supplement records. Type of surgery, type of anesthesia, comorbidities, timing of surgery, onset of symptoms, and complications were recorded. Results We identified 21 patients undergoing 26 procedures, of which 21 (81%) were emergency procedures and 5 (19%) were elective. Mean age was 37 years (range: 17-71). General anesthesia was used in 88% of cases, with mean duration of 110 minutes. SARS-CoV-2 was diagnosed on average 6 days preoperatively (range: 39 days preop-14 days postop). Positive tests were usually identified preoperatively (50%), versus day-of-surgery (25%) or postoperatively (25%). Patients were symptomatic in only 27% of cases, and completely asymptomatic in 73%. No asymptomatic patients developed complications. One patient suffered a fracture malunion after delayed surgery. Pulmonary complications were noted in 3 patients; all had prior pulmonary disease and underwent emergency surgeries under general anesthesia. Overall mortality rate was 0%. Conclusion Pulmonary complications and mortality are low following hand surgery in asymptomatic patients with a positive SARS-CoV-2 test.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander J. Adams
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Rothman Institute at Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States
| | - Nicolas Dohse
- Philadelphia Hand to Shoulder Center, Thomas Jefferson University, King of Prussia, Pennsylvania, United States
| | - Andrew Miller
- Philadelphia Hand to Shoulder Center, Thomas Jefferson University, King of Prussia, Pennsylvania, United States
| | - Rick Tosti
- Philadelphia Hand to Shoulder Center, Thomas Jefferson University, King of Prussia, Pennsylvania, United States
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Öksüz Ç, Arslan ÖB, Baş CE, Ayhan E. Early active movement with relative motion flexion splint for the management of zone 1-2 flexor tendon repairs: Case series. Physiother Theory Pract 2023; 39:2420-2426. [PMID: 35531894 DOI: 10.1080/09593985.2022.2073574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2021] [Revised: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 04/29/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is limited literature evidence on the use of relative motion flexion splint after flexor tendon repairs. OBJECTIVES We aimed to report the clinical use of early active movement with a relative motion flexion splint and to determine the outcomes of a consecutive series in patients with zone 1-2 flexor tendon repair. METHODS We included 14 patients with one-stage flexor tendon repair. An active rehabilitation program was initiated in the first week with a static dorsal block splint, which was removed in the third week, and patients started to use the relative motion flexion splint. Total active motion (TAM) of the injured finger at 8, 12, and 16 weeks after surgery was assessed as described by Strickland and Glogovac. RESULTS The mean TAM of the injured fingers was as follows: 102.5 ± 41.49° (25°-180°) at week 8; 123.42 ± 40.94° (45°-190°) at week 12; and 148 ± 38.18° (90°- 200°) at week 16. Final TAM grades of the patients at week 16 were as follows: excellent (six patients); good (five patients); and fair (three patients). There were no tendon ruptures and secondary surgeries. CONCLUSION Early active movement and the use of relative motion flexion splint seem to be promising strategies for flexor tendon zone 1-2 repair management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Çiğdem Öksüz
- Department of Occupational Therapy, Faculty of Health Sciences, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Özge Buket Arslan
- Department of Occupational Therapy, Faculty of Health Sciences, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Can Emre Baş
- Hand Surgery-Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Atatürk City Hospital, Balıkesir, Turkey
| | - Egemen Ayhan
- Hand Surgery-Orthopaedics and Traumatology, University of Health Sciences, Diskapi Y. B. Training and Research Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
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Newington L, Bamford E, Henry SL. Relative motion flexion following zone I-III flexor tendon repair: Concepts, evidence and practice. J Hand Ther 2023; 36:294-301. [PMID: 37029053 DOI: 10.1016/j.jht.2022.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2022] [Revised: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 11/01/2022] [Indexed: 04/09/2023]
Abstract
STUDY DESIGN Narrative review and case series. INTRODUCTION The relative motion approach has been applied to rehabilitation following flexor tendon repair. Positioning the affected finger(s) in relatively more metacarpophalangeal joint flexion is hypothesized to reduce the tension through the repaired flexor digitorum profundus by the quadriga effect. It is also hypothesized that altered patterns of co-contraction and co-inhibition may further reduce flexor digitorum profundus tension, and confer protection to flexor digitorum superficialis. METHODS We reviewed the existing literature to explore the rationale for using relative motion flexion orthoses as an early active mobilization strategy for patients after zone I-III flexor tendon repairs. We used this approach within our own clinic for the rehabilitation of a series of patients presenting with zone I-II flexor tendon repair. We collected routine clinical and patient reported outcome data. RESULTS We report published outcomes of the clinical use of relative motion flexion orthoses with early active motion, implemented as the primary rehabilitation approach after zone I-III flexor digitorum repairs. We also report novel outcome data from 18 patients. DISCUSSION We discuss our own experience of using relative motion flexion as a rehabilitation strategy following flexor tendon repair. We explore orthosis fabrication, rehabilitation exercises and functional hand use. CONCLUSIONS There is currently limited evidence informing use of relative motion flexion orthoses following flexor tendon repair. We highlight key areas for future research and describe a current pragmatic randomized controlled trial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Newington
- Hand Therapy, Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK; MSk Lab, Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, Sir Michael Uren Hub, London, UK.
| | - Emma Bamford
- Pulvertaft Hand Unit, King's Treatment Centre, Royal Derby Hospital, Derby, England
| | - Steven L Henry
- Department of Surgery and Perioperative Care, Dell Medical School, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA; Ascension Plastic and Hand Surgery, Austin, TX, USA
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Chan PY, Green A, Fried A, Chao JA, Moore C, Shah A. The Combination of Fractional Tendon Lengthening and the Wide Awake, Local Anesthesia, No Tourniquet Technique for Secondary Tendon Reconstruction. JOURNAL OF HAND SURGERY GLOBAL ONLINE 2023; 5:215-218. [PMID: 36974295 PMCID: PMC10039231 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhsg.2022.09.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2022] [Accepted: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 03/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Rupture is a major concern after primary flexor tendon repair. The predominant treatment for rupture of the primary repair is immediate surgical exploration and repeat repair. However, repeat repair is challenging, including achieving ideal tension in the flexor mechanism. Further, immediate repeat repair is associated with poor outcomes, particularly in the small finger. As such, there is a need to improve both the technique and outcomes of repeat repair of primary flexor tendon rupture. We present a case of primary flexor tendon repair rupture treated with a novel combination of fractional tendon lengthening and the wide awake, local anesthesia, no tourniquet technique. A combination of these techniques has multiple benefits. An intraoperative, dynamic assessment of the digits enables immediate optimization of the repair. Further, these techniques allow for better intraoperative patient education and communication, increasing the likelihood of adherence to postoperative therapy and better overall outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Anna Green
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, New Brunswick, NJ
| | - Alta Fried
- Atlantic Physical Therapy Center, East Windsor, NJ
| | - John A. Chao
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, New Brunswick, NJ
| | - Caroline Moore
- The Institute for Advanced Reconstruction, Shrewsbury, NJ
| | - Ajul Shah
- The Institute for Advanced Reconstruction, Shrewsbury, NJ
- Corresponding author: Ajul Shah, MD, The Institute for Advanced Reconstruction, 535 Sycamore Ave, Shrewsbury, NJ 07702.
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Miescher I, Rieber J, Calcagni M, Buschmann J. In Vitro and In Vivo Effects of IGF-1 Delivery Strategies on Tendon Healing: A Review. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24032370. [PMID: 36768692 PMCID: PMC9916536 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24032370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2022] [Revised: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Tendon injuries suffer from a slow healing, often ending up in fibrovascular scar formation, leading to inferior mechanical properties and even re-rupture upon resumption of daily work or sports. Strategies including the application of growth factors have been under view for decades. Insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) is one of the used growth factors and has been applied to tenocyte in vitro cultures as well as in animal preclinical models and to human patients due to its anabolic and matrix stimulating effects. In this narrative review, we cover the current literature on IGF-1, its mechanism of action, in vitro cell cultures (tenocytes and mesenchymal stem cells), as well as in vivo experiments. We conclude from this overview that IGF-1 is a potent stimulus for improving tendon healing due to its inherent support of cell proliferation, DNA and matrix synthesis, particularly collagen I, which is the main component of tendon tissue. Nevertheless, more in vivo studies have to be performed in order to pave the way for an IGF-1 application in orthopedic clinics.
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Khoshrounejad F, Tabesh H, Aalaei S, Khoshrounejad S, Moradi A, Eslami S. Effect of a Text Message-Based Support Program on Outcomes of Patients After Flexor Tendon Injury Repair. J Hand Surg Am 2022; 47:1085-1094. [PMID: 36064509 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhsa.2022.07.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2021] [Revised: 05/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Although the effectiveness of using text messages in home-based rehabilitation programs has been investigated, its ability to engage patients in home rehabilitation exercises and, as a result, improve hand outcomes, specifically in patients with flexor tendon injuries, has not been evaluated. The aim of this study was to determine whether the addition of a text message-based intervention to usual care is effective in improving hand outcomes in patients with flexor tendon injuries after repair. METHODS In this 2-arm parallel randomized controlled trial, 40 patients were randomly assigned to either the intervention group (usual care plus the support program) or the control group (usual care only). Intervention included an automated package of instructional text messages containing links to a secure website for instructional rehabilitation videos delivered over 12 weeks. The Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand and visual analog scale for pain scores were assessed at 6 and 12 weeks. Physician-reported grip strength and total active motion were assessed after 12 weeks. RESULTS The study was completed by 90% (36 of 40) of the patients who were enrolled. There were statistically significant differences between the 2 groups with respect to Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand and visual analog scale scores at the 6-week and 12-week assessments. In addition, there were statistically significant differences between the 2 groups with respect to total active motion and grip strength at 12 weeks. Finally, a high level of satisfaction with the intervention was reported. CONCLUSIONS The text message-based program was associated with improved outcomes over the first 12 weeks after flexor tendon repair. TYPE OF STUDY/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Therapeutic II.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farnaz Khoshrounejad
- Department of Medical Informatics, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Hamed Tabesh
- Department of Medical Informatics, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Shokoufeh Aalaei
- Department of Medical Informatics, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Sanaz Khoshrounejad
- Department of Medical Informatics, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Ali Moradi
- Orthopedics Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
| | - Saeid Eslami
- Department of Medical Informatics, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Department of Medical Informatics, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Pharmaceutical Research Center, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
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12
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Newington L, Lane JCE, Holmes DGW, Gardiner MD. Variation in patient information and rehabilitation regimens after flexor tendon repair in the United Kingdom. HAND THERAPY 2022; 27:49-57. [PMID: 37904731 PMCID: PMC10584046 DOI: 10.1177/17589983221089654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2021] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/01/2023]
Abstract
Introduction There is clinical uncertainty regarding the optimal method of rehabilitation following flexor tendon repair. Many splint designs and rehabilitation regimens are reported in the literature; however, there is insufficient evidence to support the use of any one regimen. The aim of this study was to describe rehabilitation guidelines used in the United Kingdom (UK) following zone I/II flexor tendon repair. Methods Using a cross-sectional design, hand units in the UK were invited to complete a short survey and to upload their flexor tendon rehabilitation guidelines and patient information material. Approval was granted by the British Association of Hand Therapists. Data were extracted in duplicate, using a pre-piloted form, and analysed using descriptive statistics. Results Thirty-five hand units responded (21%), providing 52 treatment guidelines. Three splinting regimens were described, and all involved early active mobilisation: (i) long dorsal-blocking splint (DBS); (ii) short DBS; and (iii) relative motion flexion splint. Duration of full-time splint wear ranged from 4 to 6 weeks. There were variations in splint design and composition of home exercise programmes, particularly for the long DBS. Where reported, recommended return to driving ranged from 8 to 12 weeks, and return to light work activities ranged from 5 to 10 weeks. Discussion Treatment guidelines varied across UK hand therapy departments, suggesting that patients receive differing advice about how to protect, move and use their hand after zone I/II flexor tendon repair. The disparity in splint wear duration, home exercise frequency and prescribed functional restrictions raises potential financial and social implications for patients. Future research should explore rehabilitation burden in addition to clinical outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Newington
- Hand Therapy, Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
- MSk Lab, Department of Surgery and Cancer, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Jennifer CE Lane
- Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - David GW Holmes
- Trauma and Orthopaedics, Royal Liverpool University Hospital, Foundation Trust, Aintree, Liverpool, UK
| | - Matthew D Gardiner
- Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Wexham Park Hospital, Frimley Health NHS Foundation Trust, Slough, UK
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13
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Lalonde DH. Ten Questions About Wide Awake Local Anaesthesia No Tourniquet (WALANT) Surgery. J Hand Surg Asian Pac Vol 2022; 27:219-225. [PMID: 35443890 DOI: 10.1142/s2424835522300031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this review article is to provide many important tips and tricks for surgeons to start Wide Awake Local Anaesthesia No Tourniquet (WALANT) hand surgery in their practice. The massive cost reduction of this disruptive new approach will enable them to increase access to hand surgery for their patients who cannot afford unnecessary sedation or unnecessary sterility of the expensive main operating room environment. Evidence-based sterility will permit surgeons to move a lot of their surgery out of the main operating room to minor procedure rooms without a significant increase in infection rates. Important pointers on how to inject minimally painful local anaesthesia will have patients thinking the surgeon injector is a bit of a magician. WALANT enables surgeons to improve the outcomes of many hand surgery procedures. Level of Evidence: Level V (Therapeutic).
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Sadek AF, Hweidi AS, Ahmed MA. Outcomes of staged reconstruction of Zone 2 flexor tendon injuries in recent wide-awake surgical settings and an earlier case series. J Hand Surg Eur Vol 2022; 47:206-211. [PMID: 34697974 DOI: 10.1177/17531934211053267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
We report outcomes of patients who were managed with two-stage tendon grafting for neglected Zone 2 flexor tendon injuries from 2012 until 2019. The patients were divided into two cohorts: recent series (Series 1) included patients treated with local anaesthesia and epinephrine (16 fingers, from 2015), and earlier series (Series 2) included patients treated with either general or local intravenous anaesthesia and tourniquet (12 fingers, before 2015). The patients in Series 1 achieved statistically better mean total active motion of the operated fingers and grip compared with the contralateral hand than the earlier series (p = 0.03, p = 0.01, respectively). With the Tang grading system, excellent and good results were achieved in 13 and six fingers of the patients in Series 1 and Series 2, respectively. We conclude that wide-awake second stage of staged flexor tendon grafting provides fine-tuned adjustment of length and tension of the graft, but we cannot conclude about comparative outcomes between two series because the sample size is small and the earlier series was operated by the same surgeons with lower expertise level.Level of evidence: IV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed Fathy Sadek
- Orthopaedic Surgery Department, Faculty of Medicine, Minia University, Minia, Egypt
| | - Ahmed Sobhi Hweidi
- Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Department, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Mohamed Atef Ahmed
- Orthopaedic Surgery Department, Faculty of Medicine, Minia University, Minia, Egypt
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Tang JB, Lalonde D, Harhaus L, Sadek AF, Moriya K, Pan ZJ. Flexor tendon repair: recent changes and current methods. J Hand Surg Eur Vol 2022; 47:31-39. [PMID: 34738496 DOI: 10.1177/17531934211053757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
The current clinical methods of flexor tendon repair are remarkably different from those used 20 years ago. This article starts with a review of the current methods, followed by presentation of past experience and current status of six eminent hand surgery units from four continents/regions. Many units are using, or are moving toward using, the recent strong (multi-strand) core suture method together with a simpler peripheral suture. Venting of the critical pulleys over less than 2 cm length is safe and favours functional recovery. These repair and recent motion protocols lead to remarkably more reliable repairs, with over 80% good or excellent outcomes achieved rather consistently after Zone 2 repair along with infrequent need of tenolysis. Despite slight variations in repair methods, they all consider general principles and should be followed. Outcomes of Zone 2 repairs are not dissimilar to those in other zones with very low to zero incidence of rupture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Bo Tang
- Department of Hand Surgery Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Donald Lalonde
- Dalhousie University Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Saint John, NB, Canada
| | - Leila Harhaus
- Department for Hand-, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Burn Center, Department for Hand- and Plastic Surgery at Heidelberg University, BG Trauma Center Ludwigshafen, Germany
| | - Ahmed Fathy Sadek
- Hand and Microsurgery Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Minia University, Minia, Egypt
| | - Koji Moriya
- Niigata Hand Surgery Foundation, Niigata, Japan
| | - Zhang Jun Pan
- Department of Hand Surgery, Yixing People's Hospital, Yixing, Wuxi, Jiangsu, China
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Lalonde D, Ayhan E, Ahmad AA, Koehler S. Important updates of finger fractures, entrapment neuropathies and wide-awake surgery of the upper extremity. J Hand Surg Eur Vol 2022; 47:24-30. [PMID: 34256616 DOI: 10.1177/17531934211029543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Hand surgery is rapidly changing. The wide-awake approach, minimum dissection surgery and early protected movement have changed many things. This is an update of some of the important changes regarding early protected movement with K-wired finger fracture management, simplification of nerve decompression surgery, such as elbow median and ulnar nerve releases, and some new areas in performing surgery with wide-awake local anaesthesia without tourniquet.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donald Lalonde
- Plastic Surgery, Dalhousie University, Saint John, NB, Canada
| | - Egemen Ayhan
- Orthopaedics and Traumatology, University of Health Sciences Turkey, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Amir Adham Ahmad
- Department of Orthopaedics, Prince Court Medical Centre, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Steven Koehler
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, State University of New York, Brooklyn, NY, USA
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Munz G, Poggetti A, Cenci L, Rizzo AR, Biondi M, Pfanner S. Up to five-week delay in primary repair of Zone 2 flexor tendon injuries: outcomes and complications. J Hand Surg Eur Vol 2021; 46:818-824. [PMID: 34139911 DOI: 10.1177/17531934211024435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
We report the outcomes of delayed primary repair of flexor tendons in Zone 2 in 31 fingers and thumb (28 patients) averaging 15 days (range 4-37) after injury in 2020. The delay was longer than usual due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The tendons were repaired with a 6-strand core suture (M-Tang method) or a double Tsuge suture and a peripheral suture. This was followed by an early, partial-range, active flexion exercise programme. Adhesions in four digits required tenolysis. These patients were not with longest delay. Outcomes of two improved after tenolysis. The other two patients declined further surgery. One finger flexor tendon ruptured in early active motion. This was re-repaired, and final outcome was good. Overall excellent and good results using the Tang criteria were in 27 out of 31 fingers and thumbs (87%). The time elapsed between the injury and surgery is not an important risk factor for a good outcome, rather it depends on proper surgical methods, the surgeon's experience and early mobilization, properly applied. Adhesions may occur, but they can be managed with tenolysis.Level of evidence: IV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Munz
- Unit of Surgery and Reconstructive Microsurgery of the Hand, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Careggi, Florence, Italy
| | - Andrea Poggetti
- Unit of Surgery and Reconstructive Microsurgery of the Hand, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Careggi, Florence, Italy
| | - Luca Cenci
- Unit of Surgery and Reconstructive Microsurgery of the Hand, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Careggi, Florence, Italy
| | - Anna Rosa Rizzo
- Unit of Surgery and Reconstructive Microsurgery of the Hand, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Careggi, Florence, Italy
| | - Marco Biondi
- Unit of Surgery and Reconstructive Microsurgery of the Hand, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Careggi, Florence, Italy
| | - Sandra Pfanner
- Unit of Surgery and Reconstructive Microsurgery of the Hand, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Careggi, Florence, Italy
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