Forces transmitted along human flexor tendons during passive and active movements of the fingers.
The in vivo forces in human digital flexor tendons were determined in 33 patients undergoing a carpal tunnel decompression surgery using a newly developed device. The tendons were tested in passive and active flexion, and flexing against resistance of up to 500 g. Forces in the range of 0.2 to 50 N were noted. Whilst the mean of these forces remained below the force normally required to dehisce a fresh modified Kessler repair, the range of values was such that we would only recommend early movement with great caution and under supervision.
Powell
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Department of Hand and Upper Limb Surgery, Wrightington Hospital NHS Trust, Hall Lane, Wrightington, Nr Wigan, UK. powelleric@beeb.net
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D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D001696:Biomechanical Phenomena; D002349:Carpal Tunnel Syndrome / Q000601:surgery; D019299:Decompression, Surgical; D005385:Fingers / Q000502:physiology*; D006801:Humans; D007432:Intraoperative Period; D008875:Middle Aged; D009983:Orthopedic Equipment; D013710:Tendons / Q000503:physiopathology*; D013718:Tensile Strength / Q000502:physiology; D014159:Transducers; D016474:Weight-Bearing / Q000502:physiology*