Acute Flexor Tendon Injuries in the Palm and Hand: A Review of Surgical Repair Techniques and Rehabilitation Outcomes

Abstract

Background: Flexor tendon injuries of the hand are clinically important traumatic injuries because they may impair finger flexion, grip strength, and daily hand function. Successful management requires proper understanding of tendon anatomy, nutrition, healing, injury zones, repair techniques, suture materials, rehabilitation protocols, and postoperative complications. This review aims to summarize the relevant surgical anatomy, biological basis of tendon healing, clinical assessment, principles of flexor tendon repair, commonly used repair techniques, suture materials, postoperative rehabilitation, and complications of flexor tendon injuries of the hand.

Conclusion: Optimal management of flexor tendon injuries depends on accurate diagnosis, early appropriate repair, sufficient repair strength, preservation of tendon gliding, and structured postoperative rehabilitation. Four-strand repair techniques provide improved strength and may allow early controlled mobilization; however, adhesions and stiffness remain important challenges.