Surgical Tenolysis for Post-Traumatic Finger Stiffness: Outcome Evaluation of Our Technique

Abstract

Background Hand injuries are often associated with stiffness and loss of movement of the fingers because of adhesions and fibrotic tissue formation of tendons. Tenolysis surgery is performed to loosen these adhesions to allow the tendons to slide and move normally. Multiple methods have been outlined, each possessing its own pros and cons.

Objective: This paper analyzes the clinical results of our surgical process in the treatment of stiff fingers, which includes the release of flexor and extensor tendons under local anesthesia while allowing movement of the fingers during surgery to guarantee full adhesion release.

Duration and place of study: This study was conducted at Burns Center Civil Hospital and Dow University of Health Sciences Karachi from October 2024 to October 2025

Methodology: A retrospective study was provided on 50 patients who had tenolysis performed on them with the use of this technique. The demographic information, injury nature, and clinical observations were noted. Total active motion (TAM) and flexion lag were measured preoperatively and postoperatively and compared. The perioperative or postoperative complications were also analyzed.

Results: A total of 50 patients who had stiff fingers were analyzed. The average preoperative TAM had a significant limitation, and the postoperative measurements had a significant improvement in the active range of movement. The TAM was found to have increased statistically (p < 0.05). No significant surgical morbidity was noted, and the majority of the patients had significant functional recovery.

Conclusion: The comprehensive release of adhesions surrounding flexor and extensor tendons results in a significant increase in the mobility in the fingers. Tendon release when done under local anesthesia with active involvement of the patient during the surgical procedure increases the adequacy of the tendon release procedure and helps to improve the functional results.