Objective: To retrospectively document the surgical outcome in this small group of patients in terms of functional recovery, opposition, deformity, tendon function, sensations, intrinsic muscles recovery and to compare results with the literature.
Methodology: The initial study-population consisted of 22 patients with complete records analyzed retrospectively and an evaluation was made from the records. Motor recovery and sensory recovery had been reassessed in an outpatient setting, on average 6.9 years (range 1-12) years after the operation. All had been operated by the same surgeon within 30 hours of injury using a pneumatic tourniquet and without an operating microscope. Follow up active/passive assisted exercises were used in all.
Results: Most patients had returned to their normal life without any handicap within one year of injury. Excellent and good finger flexion was achieved in 91% cases. Opposition was regained in 95%, intrinsic function good or excellent in 79% only and sensory recovery (two-point tactile discrimination) was in 62% only. Very few showed any disabling deformity and only one case needed open adhenolysis.
Conclusion: Spaghetti wrist injury can be managed in most trauma care orthopedic units without using specialized microsurgical care. Most patients return to their original jobs with good functional recovery, opposition, deformity, tendon function, sensations, intrinsic muscles recovery.
Key words: Flexor tendon injuries, peripheral nerve injuries, wrist injuries.
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