Iranian Journal of Orthopedic Surgery

Abstract  Background: Flexor and extensor tendon laceration is very common. The evaluation of these injuries may help to highlight the problem and put an end to missed diagnosis and mismanagement of these injuries. Methods: In a retrospective study, 852 patients who have been operated during one year (March 2011 to March 2012) in a training hospital in Shiraz, Iran were evaluated. Results: The 16-30 years old men were mostly affected. Flexor tendon injury was more common in zone IV and extensor tendon laceration in zone V. Associated nerve and/or arterial lacerations were detected in 22.6% patients. Digital nerve was the most commonly injured nerve followed by ulnar nerve. Radial or ulnar artery lacerations were seen in 6.1% of the patients.  Conclusions: Digital nerve is the most commonly injured nerve and should be examined precisely. The high number of affected patients in short period and the possibility of missed diagnosis by non orthopaedic physicians may signify the importance of termination of mismanagement of these injuries by general practitioners and specialists other than orthopaedic surgeons.