Recent simple flexor tendon injuries in zone I, II, III of Verdan. Results of tendon repairs concerning 115 fingers in 99 patients.

In this study, the authors analyze 197 recent injuries of the flexor tendons of fingers in zones I, II and III of Verdan, without complex cutaneous lesions, associated with an injury of one or both digital nerves, but leaving safe at least one digital artery. Tendon repair is either followed by strict immobilization or by Kleinert's method of immobilization. Results concerning 115 reviewed injuries evaluated according to Kleinert's criteriae, show a net superiority of Kleinert's technique compared to strict immobilization. Global results are analysed according to the age, the finger injured and the presence of a work accident. Lesions treated by Kleinert's technique have been analyzed according to the zone of injury, the tendon injured in zone II and the existence or not of an injured digital nerve. After Kleinert's method, factors affecting the prognosis are lesions in zone II, injury of both tendons, lesions of the fifth finger, the responsibility of a "work accident". The authors conclude as to the correct time for repair, the tendons to be repaired and the type of injuries to be immobilized. They also emphasize the progress brought to the surgery of flexor tendons by Kleinert's method.