SURGICAL MANAGEMENT OF COMPLEX DIGITAL FLEXOR TENDON SHEATHTENOSYNOVITIS

摘要

Chronic tenosynovitis is a relatively common problem of the digital sheath, particularly in the hind limbs. Most mild and moderate forms of tenosynovitis cause only low-grade lameness and can be managed medically. More severe tenosynovitis cases, andthose chronic cases that have disruption of the tendon sheath, the various mesotenons, the annular ligament, or the flexor tendons themselves, may result in a more profound and a self-perpetuating cycle of increasing tendon sheath fibrosis and annular ligament thickening. Tenosynovial masses and adhesions can develop as a consequence. These latter types of complex tenosynovitis not only require surgical intervention but generally have a reduced prognosis for good cosmetic outcome and return to completesoundness. The duration of symptoms seems particularly relevant to the final outcome of these cases.