Abstract
Flexor tendon laceration is a common hand injury. Timely and correct diagnosis of
this defect is an important factor for restoring hand function. Post-operative adhesion
is a frequent problem after tendon repair and its prevention is difficult in some
types of tendon lacerations. There have been some controversial studies on the positive
effect of some materials and substances on prevention of these adhesions. This study
aims to evaluate effects of the Heparin in postoperative tendon adhesions. In this
clinical trial, 100 patients with laceration of flexor tendons in zone II of the hand
were enrolled. The patients were randomly divided into two groups. In the first group,
0.5 cc Heparin (5000 IU/cc) was injected into each tendon ends before tendon repair.
In the control group, repair was carried out without any heparin injection. After
3 months the total active range of motion (TAROM), mean extension gap (MEG) and mean
flexion gap (MFG) were measured and compared between these two groups. The TAROM and
MEGs were not significantly different between two groups; but MFGs were significantly
better in Heparin treated group (P<0.02). However rupture rate was significantly higher in heparin treated group (P=0.003). Heparin may improve the tendons function and reduce the postoperative adhesions
in zone II of the hand; however there is a significant risk of tendon rupture.
Keywords
Flexor tendon - Heparin - Tendon adhesion - Tendon rupture
