Method and results of rehabilitation for extensor tendon injury of fingers II-V in zone I and II.

BACKGROUND Extensor tendon injuries in zone I and II are the most common closed tendon injuries. The aim of this study was to present a therapeutic programme and the results of rehabilitation of patients with these injuries relative to patient management following the injury. MATERIAL AND METHODS The subjects were 50 patients who had sustained injuries to extensor tendons of fingers II-V in Verdan's injury zones I and II. The patients were undergoing treatment in Malopolskie Hand Rehabilitation Centre, L. Rydygier Hospital in Kraków. The evaluation was based on physiotherapeutic diagnostic techniques which included the measurement of the active range of motion, function tests and a two-point discrimination test. Swanson's methodology was used for the assessment of hand function impairment. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS The evaluation results and their analysis revealed a difference in the outcome of rehabilitation relative to patient management following the injury (surgical vs. conservative). The programme of rehabilitation was also shown to be effective.