Dynamic procedures for claw-finger correction--dilemma of balancing tension in transferred tendon slips.

ABSTRACT

The critical step in dynamic claw-finger correction procedures is adjustment of tension on the tendon slips which are being sutured at the new insertion sites to correct finger-clawing. Several methods to balance and adjust the tension have been described ever since these procedures have been in use. Ultimately it is the experience of the operating surgeon that helps to decide as to the tension that is to be kept on each slip so that maximum deformity correction is obtained without compromising the functional capabilities of the hand. An attempt has been made to describe this "experience" in words so that the surgeons who perform these corrective surgical procedures for the first time have some criteria to guide them.