Relative active motion programs following extensor tendon repair: A pilot study using a prospective cohort and evaluating outcomes following orthotic interventions

Study designProspective cohort.IntroductionThe Immediate Controlled Active Motion program, used to manage extensor tendon repairs in the hand, immobilizes the wrist in an orthosis with the affected finger(s) placed in a separate yoke orthosis allowing controlled flexion.PurposeTo compare our outcomes using similar programs in patients with simple extensor tendon lacerations to those previously reported. To compare our 4-week orthotic intervention to our 6-week orthotic intervention.Methods18 subjects received a 4-week orthotic intervention, 45 subjects received a 6-week orthotic intervention. Range of motion was measured 4, 6 and 8 weeks post-repair, grip strength at 6 and 8 weeks, and patient-rated outcomes at baseline, 6 and 12 weeks post-repair.ResultsSignificant improvements in all outcomes were seen over time (p < 0.0001), with no significant differences between programs.ConclusionOutcomes were comparable with those previously published and similar between the 4-week and 6-week orthotic interventions.Level of evidenceIII