Extensor Tendon Injury Outcomes Based on Zone of Injury

Purpose: Extensor tendons are located on the dorsal surface of the hand, however they lie superficially and are protected only by a thin layer of soft tissue. This makes them vulnerably to injury and morbidity. There are established anatomical zones of the hand which allow surgeons to classify injury locations, and previous studies have explored the link between zone of injury and outcomes following surgery. This has been well studied for the flexor tendons (ventral surface of the hand), but is still poorly characterized for the extensor tendons. In the present study, we aim to determine which zones are more amenable to surgical repair, and what unique factors may impact surgical outcomes for each zone. Methods: We have conducted a retrospective chart review of patients who have undergone extensor tendon repair surgery at JPS Health Network since 2012. Results: Our data collection revealed that zones 1-4 had statistically significant worse final flexion TAM when compared to zones 5-8. Conclusion: Our preliminary data analysis suggests that there is a statistically significant difference in the outcomes of different zones of injury, and therefore each zone deserves unique considerations prior to surgical repair. This is possibly due to the fact that the more proximal zones generally have more complex injury patterns.