Two-stage flexor tendon reconstruction in the hand.

The results of two-stage flexor tendon reconstruction in the hand, evaluated in 25 fingers in 20 patients with an average followup of 5 months, were graded on the basis of total range of active flexion and combined extension loss. Two-stage flexor tendon reconstruction can significantly improve the functional status of fingers with extensive damage or scarring of the flexor mechanism. Function was generally improved despite the preoperative status of the digit, but a completely normal flexion range can be restored only in rare instances. Poor results were noted in 8 patients. The likelihood of success may be predictably less in patients with a prolonged interval between injury and reconstruction, joint contractures, synovitis following stage-one, multiple grafts, and advanced age.