Outcome of a two year prospective study of flexor tendon repair of the hand at the University Teaching Hospital, Lusaka

Abstract

A two-year prospective study of Flexor Tendon repair at the University Teaching Hospital (UTH), Lusaka is presented. A total of 20 cases were seen in this period, with a total of 71 tendon repairs. Results were graded using the white (1956) and Boyes (1947) criteria: 4 patients were graded as excellent; 7 Good ;7 fair and 2 Poor. The pattern of results compares well with results from other centres where Flexor Tendon repairs of the hand is carried out, showing Zone 2 (No man's land) repairs giving the worst results. Reference is also made to the importance of the Anatomy when considering repairs of the flexor tendon in the hand as well as practical Surgical approach to this subject.