A comparison of dynamic extension splinting and controlled active mobilization of complete divisions of extensor tendons in zones 5 and 6.

We present a prospective randomized trial of two groups of 50 patients each having complete zone 5 and 6 extensor tendon injuries. These were rehabilitated by the use of either a dynamic outrigger splint or a palmar blocking splint. The results were analysed using the Miller and TAM assessments. Good and excellent results were achieved in 95 and 98% of cases following dynamic outrigger mobilization and 93 and 95% of cases using palmar blocking splint mobilization, using the Miller and TAM assessments respectively. There was no statistical difference in the results obtained between the two groups. Therefore, we prefer the latter technique which is simple, cheap, more convenient and requires less therapy time.