Which dynamic splint is used to allow controlled extension with passive extension and active flexion up to about 30 degrees after extensor tendon repair?

Which dynamic splint is used to allow controlled extension with passive extension and active flexion up to about 30 degrees after extensor tendon repair?

• A. Static dorsal blocking splint
• B. Dynamic extension outrigger
• C. Dorsal outrigger with volar block
• D. Finger extension brace

Answer: (B)

After extensor tendon repair, the goal is to protect the repair while allowing controlled movement to prevent stiffness. A dynamic extension splint with an extension outrigger is designed to provide that balance: a small dorsal outrigger creates a controlled extension force, so the finger can be held in extension passively, while the patient can actively flex the finger up to about 30 degrees. This setup protects the repair by limiting excessive tension during extension, yet still promotes tendon gliding and early motion with active flexion within a safe range. Static dorsal blocking splints, in contrast, hold the finger in extension and restrict active motion, which is not ideal for early mobilization. A dorsal outrigger with volar block and a generic finger extension brace don’t specifically provide the same controlled extension with a defined, limited active flexion range that the dynamic extension outrigger offers.

After extensor tendon repair, the goal is to protect the repair while allowing controlled movement to prevent stiffness. A dynamic extension splint with an extension outrigger is designed to provide that balance: a small dorsal outrigger creates a controlled extension force, so the finger can be held in extension passively, while the patient can actively flex the finger up to about 30 degrees. This setup protects the repair by limiting excessive tension during extension, yet still promotes tendon gliding and early motion with active flexion within a safe range.

Static dorsal blocking splints, in contrast, hold the finger in extension and restrict active motion, which is not ideal for early mobilization. A dorsal outrigger with volar block and a generic finger extension brace don’t specifically provide the same controlled extension with a defined, limited active flexion range that the dynamic extension outrigger offers.