Document Type
Poster
Original Publication Date
2016
Date of Submission
May 2016
Abstract
End-to-end repair of damaged tendon is not possible in many instances of injury. Staged flexor tendon reconstruction has been proven to be a valuable method of addressing complex flexor tendon injuries when the patient presents late, has failed primary repair, or the injury mandates it (1). Silicone implants have been used for two-stage flexor tendon reconstructions with reports of long-term use as active implants (2,3). Implants have been reported functional approximately one year post-surgery with some still in use up to 25 years after reconstruction (4). This suggests the potential of the implant serving as a permanent prosthesis. The biomechanical strength of two proximal junction methods using a commercially available active tendon implant has been studied with a reported mean ultimate failure load of 220N (5). Biomechanical investigation of distal fixation has yet to be studied, but combined with the proximal results could lead to changes in two-staged flexor tendon reconstruction protocols allowing for earlier active range of motion, delayed Stage II surgeries, and perhaps permanent implantation.
Purpose: This study investigates two distal fixation techniques, Screw versus Knot fixation, using an active tendon implant in a canine model.
Is Part Of
VCU School of Medicine MD Student Summer Research Fellowship Program Posters