Medizinische Universität Graz - Research portal
Selected Publication:
Seitz, S.
Management of Extensor Tendon Injuries in Paediatric and Adolescent Patients
Humanmedizin; [ Diplomarbeit ] Graz Medical University; 2015. pp.
[OPEN ACCESS]
FullText
- Authors Med Uni Graz:
- Advisor:
- Schmidt Barbara
- Singer Georg
- Altmetrics:
- Abstract:
- Objective: Purpose of this study was to show the management of extensor tendon injuries in paediatric and adolescent patients and assess the functional outcomes of injuries to specific Zones as well as various repair techniques. Also general epidemiological factors such as distribution of these injuries in children and teenagers age-wise, typical causes and primary treatment was assessed as details on these parameters are still widely unknown. Methods: Following a descriptive, retrospective study model we reviewed the data of 143 patients treated for injuries to extensor tendons of the hand at the Department of Paediatric and Adolescent Surgery Graz. Including patients from 2003 to 2012, the age was set to be between 0 to 18 years, with no amputating injuries being included. Using basic documentation and surgical protocols a variety of parameters concerning patient-, injury- and treatment specific factors as well as functional outcome were assessed and compared in a descriptive manner. Results: We found a gender distribution of 3:1, affecting a higher number of boys (74.13%), and suiting this a dominance of cut and ball sport caused injuries of 68,53%. The age most often affected was in 14 year-olds (14,69%), both in the full collective as well in Zone I injuries which made up the biggest subgroup with 56,10% of all cases. There was no preference in injured side to be seen. Multiple injuries in children are rare as 87,41% suffer single tendon injuries. The preferred suture type were U-sutures in 49,83%. While 39% of all patients showed complicating factors, lasting deficits were only seen in 14,69% which makes for excellent or good end results in 92,31%. Conclusions: In comparison to adult studies we could find extremely good functional outcomes relatively soon after repair took place. However, long-term development and its effect on tendon function would be of significant interest, as due to the nature of a child's growth any manipulation will show some degree of influence. Larger, prospective studies on the topic are needed.