Introduction: In this study, we compared the functional
outcome of repair of cut flexor tendons using modified Kessler
technique versus the four stands technique.
Patients and Methods: Thirty Two adult patients with
forty one severed flexor tendon underwent primary tendon
repair. In group A, we used two strands repair technique and
in group B we used four strand repair technique. We used
early controlled physiotherapy rehabilitation protocols for
both groups.
Results: Regarding total active range of motion and DASH
score, there were no statistically significant differences between
the outcomes of these two groups. Tendon rupture occurred
in one case in group A.
Discussion: Primary tendon repair is the optimum treatment
for cut flexor tendons. However, several repair techniques
and rehabilitation protocols exist. In vitro tests concluded that
the more the strands that cross the repair site, the stronger the
repair but in vivo studies did not reflect such benefits except
the four strands technique.
Conclusion: We were not able to identify any statistically
significant differences in total active motion and DASH scores
between two and four strands repair techniques. However,
the results of four strands technique were more favorable.