Suggest Remedy For Injury To Tendon Of Fingers
On the second surgery the surgeon mended the tendon with a tendon from my daughter's wrist and placed a temporary pin. After surgery she had physical therapy for 5 weeks and her finger still looks like a mallet finger and she has trouble bending it. I had a second opinion from another surgeon in the area and he said he wouldn't advise another surgery. I'm at a loss what to do. Can further therapy or splints be helpful?
Physiotherapy will be helpful
Detailed Answer:
Hi
Welcome to Healthcaremagic
Greetings of the day
Dear Ms
I would agree with the opinion of your physician that it will be risky carrying out one more surgery at this stage. As your daughter has undergone Surgery twice , there is associated fibrosis and alteration of original anatomical configuration of tissue and tendon.
If there has been restriction in complete movement range of movement of finger , it's likely to be due to fibrosis adhesion causing shortening of tendon and restrictions in movement .
As it's been only 5 weeks following 2nd surgery , it is advisable to wait for another 2 to 4 weeks and try conservative management. I would suggest you the following
1. Adequate Physiotherapy : Both active and passive exercise are recommended. Splinting will cause the finger to be immobilised and decreased movements will promote more of fibrosis and worsen the scenario
2. Hot wax bath : Hot wax bath in consultation with Physiotherapist will be helpful in breaking fibrosis and helping regain complete movement.
3. Encourage both active and passive movement of finger
4. Weekly reassessment by treating Surgeon. Exact decision is only possible by regular clinical assessment by Physician
Do not worry things can be taken care off. Keep following up with your chid Physician.
Wishing you and your family a very happy and healthy life.
Take care
Best regards
Dr Deepak Kaltari
Consultant Surgeon