Pulley reconstruction with different materials: experimental study.

Abstract

The digital fibroosseous pulley system is essential for optimum function of the flexor tendons and the continuation of normal hand functions. Different materials have been used for pulley reconstruction in the literature but the ideal material is still controversial. In this study, after the excision of the A2 pulley, pulley reconstructions were performed by using acellular dermal matrix, solvent dehydrated bovine pericardium, fascia lata, and free tendon graft in the rabbit model. The animals were killed at the 8th and 12th weeks and subjected to biomechanical testing. Tendon excursion and work of flexion values were calculated for each digit of the rabbits. As a result, all the reconstructed pulleys were functioning well without a statistically significant difference between the experimental groups. Pulleys reconstructed with acellular dermal matrix and solvent-dehydrated bovine pericardium appear to have the potential to function as effective pulley substitutes.