Early Active Mobilization for Extensor Tendon Injuries

Abstract

Dynamic splinting following extensor tendon repair gives better results than static splinting, but involves cumbersome splints and recommended protocols are often complicated. We prefer controlled active mobilization of extensor tendon repairs without dynamic splinting. Six weeks after repair, excellent or good function was obtained in 22 out of 24 simple extensor tendon injuries and in 11 out of 13 complex injuries. The results of this prospective study are comparable with those reported after dynamic splinting; this regime does not require outrigger splintage and is simple to follow.