Management of acute open flexor tendon injuries of the hand and wrist: basic sciences,surgical factors and rehabilitation pertinent to optimizing outcome

Flexor tendon injuries to the hand and wrist represent a significant resource burden to the UK NHS. A good understanding of tendon basic science and repair techniques is crucial for the surgeon undertaking their repair and rehabilitation. Furthermore, this is a common topic assessed in the FRCS(Orth) examination. This article will summarize the basic science relating to tendon structure, physiology and injury. Additionally, it will present key surgical and rehabilitation factors relevant to clinical outcomes.