Comparison of two relative motion extension orthotic programs following surgical repair of finger extensor tendons in zones V-VI: A randomized equivalence trial

It is generally accepted that extensor tendon repairs in zones V and VI require a period of postoperative protection to prevent tendon rupture or gapping, and controlled motion, rather than immobilisation is the preferred management.1-5 The relative motion extension (RME) approach involves use of a RME finger orthosis which enables controlled active motion through the repaired tendon(s).6 This approach, identified as the most widely used in an international survey of therapists7, has shown promising results in cohort studies6, 8, 9, and was selected as the preferred approach in direct comparison studies, including immobilization10, controlled motion using a palmar orthosis- interphalangeal joints (IPJs) free to mobilize11, and a dynamic orthosis12.
Source: Journal of Hand Therapy - Category: Rehabilitation Authors: Source Type: research