Improved, atraumatic access to digits with severe flexor contractures: surgical tape and suture modification of the lead hand

We present a modification to the widely used lead hand retraction system that allows for improved surgical access to a digit with a severe flexor contracture. A simple construct using surgical adhesive tape and a silk suture can be made and applied to the digit and lead hand. Our technique is simple and inexpensive to use, and we recommend its use to improve surgical access without causing unnecessary trauma to the digit.