Primary flexor tendon repair: surgical techniques based on the anatomy and biology of the flexor tendon system.

The anatomy, biology and bio-mechanics of the flexor tendon system demand a precise approach to flexor tendon repair. Within the fibroosseous canal, the synovial fluid and a complex intratendinous vascular network provide nutrition for intrinsic flexor tendon healing. Retention of the synovial sheath theoretically maintains an enclosed tendon/tendon sheat environment in which the tendon repair is bathed in synovial fluid, and may glide within a smooth tunnel. The preservation of the intricate double tendon inter-relationship and the annular pulley system is vital to the efficiency of finger flexion. This review details surgical and postoperative techniques aimed at restoring the normal anatomy and providing optimal conditions for the return of flexor tendon function.