General Principles of Flexor Tendon Repair

Flexor tendon repair techniques and rehabilitation have advanced tremendously in the past 50 years. However, the attributes of the ideal tendon repair articulated by Dr Strickland in 1995 hold true today. The ideal repair requires sutures easily placed in the tendon, secure suture knots, a smooth juncture of the tendon ends, minimal gapping, least interference with tendon vascularity, and sufficient strength throughout healing. When accomplished, the modern flexor tendon repair is a stout repair, sufficient for early mobilization and intrinsic tendon healing.