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J Hand Microsurg 2019; 11(03): 121-126
DOI: 10.1055/s-0039-1700370
Review Article
Society of Indian Hand & Microsurgeons

Pyogenic Flexor Tenosynovitis: Evaluation and Treatment Strategies

Talia Chapman
1   Rothman Institute, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States
,
Asif M. Ilyas
1   Rothman Institute, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States
› Author Affiliations
Further Information

Publication History

Received: 23 September 2018

Accepted after revision: 09 July 2019

Publication Date:
02 November 2019 (online)

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Abstract

Pyogenic flexor tenosynovitis (PFT) is a common closed-space infection of the flexor tendon sheaths of the hand, which remains one of the most challenging problems facing hand surgeons. PFT goes by several names including septic or suppurative flexor tenosynovitis. Adequate treatment requires timely diagnosis and often prompt surgical treatment. However, despite prompt treatment, and regardless of the protocol used, complication rates as high as 38% have been reported in the literature. Moreover, even with successful eradication of the infection, a significant proportion of patients will suffer from continuing pain, swelling, stiffness, loss of composite flexion, weakness, and recurrence potentially requiring amputation. This review will focus on current evidence-based antimicrobial and surgical treatment strategies to maximize treatment outcomes.

Keywords

pyogenic - suppurative - septic flexor tenosynovitis