Extensor Tendon Repair Protocol (zone 4-7): Immediate Controlled Active Motion (ICAM)

Howell, J.W., Merritt, W. H., & Robinson, S. J. (2005). Immediate Controlled Active Motion Following Zone 4–7 Extensor Tendon Repair. Journal of hand therapy: 18, 182-90.

The Skinny- For years immobilization was the standard procedure following extensor tendon injuries in zones 4-7. As expected immobilization caused lengthy rehabilitation times, stiff joints, and tendon adhesions often leading to capsulotomy or tenolysis procedures. This study sought to provide an alternative, using an immediate controlled active motion (ICAM) protocol with a two-part orthosis program (ICAM extensor tendon protocol). A total of 140 patients took part in the study

In The Weeds- Each participant followed a three-phase rehab protocol.

Phase 1: Participants wore the two-part orthosis for 21 days, which consisted of a yoke orthosis on the involved digits with the MP joint(s) in 15-20 degrees extension, and a volar wrist orthosis with the wrist placed in 20-25 degrees of extension.

Phase 2: Participants wore the yoke orthosis at all times and wrist orthosis during medium to heavy-duty type tasks for days 22-35 post surgery.

Phase 3: Participants were to discharge the wrist orthosis entirely and only use the yoke orthosis for 36-49 post surgery. All orthoses were d/c after 49 days post surgery.

The protocol is an option when one digit is affected or two digits if not IF+LF or RF+SF. It is not recommended for 3-4 digit involvement.

Results: No extension lag was found in 114 patients, and no terminal flexion loss was found in 111 patients. Patients that saw some extension lag or terminal flexion loss were complex tendon injuries. Grip strength at time of discharge averaged 85% of the uninjured hand. No complications such as ruptured tendons, infections, or pain syndromes occurred. No secondary surgeries such as tenolysis or capsulotomies were required.

Bringing it Home- This study demonstrated patients with extensor tendon injuries in zones 4-7 can safely perform immediate controlled active motion using a yoke splint on the fingers and a wrist extension orthosis, each with specified degrees of extension. Excellent outcomes included reducing extensor lags, return of strength, average return to work in 18 days, and an average discharge of seven weeks. 

Taking into account this study’s thorough anatomical cadaver testing trials, large patient sample size, specific inclusion criteria with documentation of varying complexities of tendon injuries within its sample, and transparent data analysis, it is a reliable source to inform your practice. Detailed tutorials with pictures on how to make the two-part orthosis are also included in the text.