We report three complete ruptures and one partial rupture of the flexor pollicis longus tendon in association with the insertion of a volar plate for the treatment of fracture of the distal radius. Rupture was associated with the chronic use of steroids.

Terminal amputations with loss of the distal pulp are common injuries. This report analyses 64 consecutive cases of advanced or exchanged homodigital neurovascular island flaps operated on by one surgeon between 1981-1986. The surgical technique, indications, contra-indications and five year results are evaluated. Overall, these flaps provide reliable vascularity as well as normal sensibility at the distal end of the finger where high quality perception is required.

We studied the influence of the type of skin incision on the recurrence rate following fasciectomy for Dupuytren's disease. Patients were randomized to a longitudinal incision closed with Z-plasties or a modified Bruner incision closed by Y-V plasties. Follow-up was for at least 2 years or until a recurrence was noted. We found no statistical difference in recurrence rate between patients having these two skin incisions and closures.

Tension in the palmar fascia has been proposed as a factor causing Dupuytren's disease. If tension does stimulate the growth of new Dupuytren's tissue, relieving longitudinal tension should reduce the recurrence rate following surgery. Thirty patients with palmar Dupuytren's contracture of a single ray that affected only the metacarpophalangeal joint were divided into two groups. Both groups had a fasciotomy: one group through a transverse incision that was closed directly and the other through a longitudinal incision with Z-plasty closure. Half the patients (seven of 14) who had direct closure had recurrence at 2 years as compared to two of the 13 in the Z-plasty group. The trial was stopped at the interim analysis stage due to the high recurrence rate in the first group. These results are consistent with the tension hypothesis for the aetiology of Dupuytren's disease.