In vitro Biomechanical Study of Pulvertaft Tendon Weaving Technique

Abstract

a b s t r a c tBackground/Purposes: The outcome of tendon repair depends on the strength, which allows early active mobilization to achieve better function without rupture. The aims of this study are to assess quantitatively the biomechanical properties and relationship between the number of tendon weaving and suture method using Pulvertaft technique. Results: We found that the load to failure was increased with increasing number of weaves and sutures. From 1-weave to 4-weave single suture samples, the peak load to failure was 9.5 N, 19.7 N, 37.5 N, and 42.6 N, respectively. Based on previous studies, wrist and finger tendons should withstand 1e8 N on passive mobilization. Conclusion: On active mobilization, finger tendon repair need to provide 34 N for immediate mobilization. Therefore, irrespective of number of sutures, both 3-and 4-weave repairs could allow early mobilization biomechanically.

The rare injury of a closed digital extensor tendon avulsion of the third finger at its musculotendinous junction: Case presentation and brief overview of literature with regard to general, specific and practicable aspects to extensor tendon surgery involving tendon transfer procedures

“…Since 1948, the Pulvertaft tendon weaving suture technique which was used in our presented case has been one of the popular methods used in tendon transfers, however, the outcome of a TTP depends on the strength of repair, which allows early active mobilization, and thence better range of motion without risk of rupture [82][83][84]. A biomechanical study revealed that both the Pulvertaft 3-and 4-weave repair could allow early and safe active mobilization [85]. The main problem with the Pulvertaft weaving is failure by the suture knots either slipping or pulling through the tendon, and a step-cut side-to-side tendon suture is an alternative to reduce bulkiness that is mostly observed with the use of the Pulvertaft weaving [86,87].…”