UPDATE ON TENDON REPAIR

Successful repair of injured tendons - both flexors and extensors - re mains one of the ongoing challenges facing the hand surgeon. The lates t information on surgical techniques, postoperative rehabilitation, an d the role of pharmacologic adjuncts in tendon repair surgery are pres ented. Pertinent tendon anatomy, physiology of tendon healing, and his torical aspects are covered as well. Controversial issues, including i ndications for repair of partial tendon lacerations and whether or not the tendon sheath should be repaired, are addressed. Illustrated exam ples of individual tendon repair techniques are included.