Three-dimensional CT imaging of flexor tendon ruptures in the hand and wrist.

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study is to determine the applicability of 3D CT imaging in the evaluation of flexor tendon rupture in the hand and wrist.

DESIGN: Twenty-four digits in 22 patients (18 adults, 4 children) with a spectrum of finger flexion disturbances were investigated by a multidetector-row CT scanner, and diagnosed by 3D CT image with the volume rendering technique. The accuracy of the image diagnosis was confirmed operatively in 20 digits.

RESULTS: 3D CT imaging gave a precise analysis in all adult cases. It clearly depicted the location of rupture and tendon stump. All of the 12 digits diagnosed from the images as tendon rupture were operated on, and the operational finding correlated well with the diagnosis based on the image. In the children, the image analysis was equivocal.

CONCLUSIONS: 3D CT imaging can be useful when the diagnosis of flexor tendon rupture cannot be made based on trauma history and clinical examinations, and can be helpful in surgical planning.