Background

Zone II Flexor tendon injuries of the hand are challenging to rehabilitate to a good to excellent standard. Patients are significantly impaired due to commonly used forearm-based dorsal blocking splints and instructions for no use of the injured hand for a minimum of 6 weeks.  A pilot project by Peck et al., 2014 trialled the innovative Manchester Short Splint. The study of 40 patients, reported less flexion contractures at the PIP joint, improved arc of flexion at the DIP joint, and comparable rupture rates to usual treatment.

Problem

To determine if the Manchester Short Splint can be used more readily in a clinical setting to enhance patient satisfaction and function.

Intervention

The short splint was fabricated as per the Manchester guidelines. A rehabilitation regime consisting of early active motion and light functional use of the unaffected fingers was commenced for 6 weeks. Eligible patients with zone II (FDS/FDP) flexor tendon injuries were included in the case series study. Total active range of motion (TAM), splint compliance and satisfaction, and a quality of life measure (DASH) were assessed at 2, 6 and 12 weeks post-surgery.

Evaluation

Success of the Manchester Short Splint will be evaluated as per the outcome areas: rupture rate; flexion contracture; TAM; patient compliance and satisfaction; and, the DASH.

Recommendations

Early results indicate similar outcomes and implications for practice to reports in Peck et al. (2014). Ongoing analysis will be completed with a full data set at the end of the study period.