Long term hand function without long finger extensors: a clinical study.

This study examines the premise that, following severe injuries to the dorsum of the hand, reconstruction of the long extensor tendons of the fingers may not be necessary for many patients. The long-term hand function of nine patients who sustained such injuries and had operations to provide skin cover only, has been comprehensively assessed using objective tests and a detailed questionnaire. It is concluded that provision of skin cover followed by intensive early mobilisation may be an adequate management of these injuries.