Our Summary

This study was conducted to evaluate the results of a surgical procedure known as flexor tendon repair in a specific area of the hand, known as zone II. The researchers compared the effectiveness of three different methods of evaluation - the original Strickland score, the adjusted Strickland score, and a comprehensive hand function test known as the 400-points test.

The study involved 31 patients who underwent the surgery, all of whom were treated by the same medical team at the same location. Three months after the surgery, the researchers found that the patients’ outcomes were significantly better when evaluated with the adjusted Strickland score and the 400-points test than with the original Strickland score.

Six months after the surgery, the scores had improved even more. The results were still significantly better with the adjusted Strickland score and the 400-points test. The researchers also found a strong correlation between the results of the adjusted Strickland score and the 400-points test.

In conclusion, the study suggests that the success of flexor tendon repair surgery in zone II is difficult to assess with just one type of test. It recommends using a combination of an adjusted Strickland score and a comprehensive hand function test like the 400-points test.

FAQs

  1. What is the main purpose of this study on flexor tendon repair in zone II of the hand?
  2. What were the findings of the study in terms of the effectiveness of different evaluation methods for this surgery?
  3. Why does the study recommend using a combination of an adjusted Strickland score and a 400-points test in evaluating the success of the surgery?

Doctor’s Tip

This information can help doctors advise their patients on what to expect after hand surgery and how best to evaluate their progress and success of the procedure. It is important for patients to follow their doctor’s recommendations for post-operative care and rehabilitation in order to achieve the best possible outcome.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended hand surgery include those with:

  1. Flexor tendon injuries in zone II of the hand
  2. Severe hand injuries that affect the function and mobility of the hand
  3. Chronic conditions such as arthritis that cause pain and limited movement in the hand
  4. Nerve injuries in the hand that affect sensation and movement
  5. Tumors or cysts in the hand that require surgical removal
  6. Congenital hand deformities that affect hand function and appearance

Overall, hand surgery may be recommended for patients who have conditions affecting the hand that cannot be effectively treated with non-surgical methods or who have not had success with conservative treatments.

Timeline

Before hand surgery:

  1. Patient experiences pain, limited range of motion, and decreased hand function due to an injury or condition.
  2. Patient consults with a hand surgeon to discuss treatment options and determine if surgery is necessary.
  3. Pre-operative tests and evaluations are conducted to assess the patient’s overall health and readiness for surgery.
  4. Patient undergoes hand surgery to repair the issue, such as flexor tendon repair in zone II of the hand.

After hand surgery:

  1. Patient goes through a post-operative recovery period, which may involve wearing a splint or cast and attending physical therapy sessions.
  2. Follow-up appointments with the hand surgeon are scheduled to monitor the healing process and assess the effectiveness of the surgery.
  3. Patient gradually regains hand function and range of motion as the hand heals and the tendon repair strengthens.
  4. Patient’s outcomes are evaluated using different assessment methods, such as the Strickland score, adjusted Strickland score, and comprehensive hand function tests like the 400-points test.
  5. Results show improvement in hand function and overall outcomes at three and six months post-surgery, with the adjusted Strickland score and 400-points test being more effective in assessing the success of the surgery.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about hand surgery include:

  1. What type of hand surgery is being recommended for me and why?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with this surgery?
  3. What is the expected recovery time and rehabilitation process after the surgery?
  4. How will the success of the surgery be evaluated and what outcomes can I expect?
  5. Are there any alternative treatment options available for my condition?
  6. How experienced are you in performing this specific type of hand surgery?
  7. Can you provide me with information about your success rates and patient outcomes for this surgery?
  8. What can I do to prepare for the surgery and improve my chances of a successful outcome?
  9. Will I need any follow-up appointments or additional therapy after the surgery?
  10. Are there any restrictions or limitations I should be aware of post-surgery in terms of hand function or activities?

Reference

Authors: Lozano A, Foisneau A, Touillet A, Hossu G, Athlani L. Journal: J Hand Surg Asian Pac Vol. 2023 Apr;28(2):266-272. doi: 10.1142/S2424835523500303. PMID: 37120306