Long term results of early active extension and passive flexion mobilization following one-stage tendon grafting for neglected injuries of the flexor digitorum profundus in children

We retrospectively reviewed the long-term clinical outcomes of one-stage flexor tendon grafting for seven paediatric patients with isolated flexor digitorum profundus (FDP) tendon injuries in Zones 1 or 2. Free tendon grafts (one palmaris longus tendons and six plantaris tendons) were used for reconstruction by Pulvertaft's procedure. The ages of the patients at reconstruction ranged from 7 to 15 (mean 11) years. The time from injury to surgery ranged from three to 78 (mean 25) months. These patients were followed up from 2.5 to 21 years after surgery (mean 8.5 years). All cases were started on early active extension and passive flexion according to the modified Kleinert mobilization for postoperative rehabilitation. The mean active motion after surgery was 49° (range 20-80°) for the DIP joints and 106° (range 95-110°) for the PIP joints. The total active range of motion was on average 237° (range 195-275°). Excellent results were achieved in five patients, good in one, and fair in one. Growth arrest of the distal phalanx was seen in one patient. One-stage flexor tendon grafting in paediatric patients combined with early controlled mobilization can be used to reconstruct neglected isolated ruptures of the FDP tendon with satisfactory results.