The ability to use our hands is central to how we interact with the world around us. We use them not only to pick up and interact with the objects in the world around us, but to express ourselves, protect ourselves, and to eat. They are our gateway to the world around us.
At the core of your hand movement are a series of essential tendons known as flexor tendons. If you can picture a rope inside of a lubricated sheath that contracts and releases, pulling your hinged fingers closed and opening them again. This is what happens every time you curl your finger inwards or extend it to point.
In our business, a lot of the problems people encounter is with lacerations to the sheaths around these tendons. When these are cut or otherwise damaged, it can cause severe pain and impede your movements to a huge degree.
Sheath Dilation: A Problem
When we repair a sheath that has been lacerated or bisected, a problem can arise. The sheath will pull back from the point where it has been cut and constrict around the tendon itself. Once this happens, it can be difficult for someone repairing this injury to “grab” the sheath in order to bring both sides back together to join them.
In sheath dilation cases, it’s necessary to dilate these areas in order to be able to work with them. Experts will use high-end flexor tendon repair tools. Suture retrieval tools like these give them quick access to the contracted area. This, in turn, shortens operation times and minimizes further potential damage to the flexor tendon.
With the sheath in place, the rest of the procedure is ready to move forward as planned. If you’re interested in learning more about high-quality flexor tendon repair components, visit Tobo Orthopaedics today!