[Tension force in dynamic splints made of neoprene]. / Le collage en tension dans les orthèses dynamiques en matériau néoprène.

Dynamic splints are the most difficult ortheses to make. Unrestricted finger joint mobility is usually prevented by the size of their components. Ortheses made out of neoprene material have the advantage of being pliable and at the same time can be constructed as dynamic splints. Neoprene material elasticity allows conforming it into a tube that can be fitted over a finger, spreading uniform pressure. A traction slip can be cemented to the neoprene finger tube. With neoprene splints, lever arms are more efficient. Their tubular design applies and spreads traction and countertraction forces in all directions. Neoprene material's elasticity contributes in reducing edema formation as well as distributes forces applied to the finger over a large area. The risk of excessive pressure is the only drawback of an elastic tubular design, it may cause pain and tissue ischemia. A meticulous tailoring prevents this potential risk.

[Injuries to the extensor tendons of the fingers]. / Plaies des tendons extenseurs des doigts.

The main risks in case of extensor tendon laceration are firstly, the possibility of misdiagnosis, and secondly the occurrence of adhesions which can compromise the excursion of the extensor apparatus. Extensor tendon lesions at the dorsum of the wrist and hand have a better prognosis regarding the postoperative results than lesions at the finger level. Protected early mobilisation methods represent a real advance in the postoperative management of extensor tendon lesions.

[A dynamic aid adjusted by a calibrated spiral spring for use in hand splints]. / L'assistant dynamique chiffré par ressort spirale étalonné dans l'orthèse de la main.

The authors demonstrate the value of a dynamic aid which can be adapted to various situations with known forces of fraction and stretch: the calibrated spiral spring. The maximal stretch is 50 mm and the usable forces range from 50 g to 2,000 g. This range allows the specific use in different hands and allows the splint to be adapted to each finger and to each pathological condition. The long term mechanical constancy of the spring is an additional advantage. The system is used with a set of adjustable parts, allowing the formation of a "low profile" splint.