The use of Silastic Sheet in hand Surgery

Abstract

Silicone rubber (Silastic) has lately been widely used in experimental and clinical surgery. Even in reconstructive hand surgery, Silastic seems to be a valuable contribution that has come to stay. Efforts are made to evaluate the effects of subtendon Silastic implants on the prevention of restrictive tendon adhesions. Used as underlyas for extensor tendons adherent to callus and scar formation from fractures of the fingers, the results of tenolysis have been very good and lasting. A total of seven fingers have been treated in this way. A marked improvement of joint motion was recorded in all cases and in five fingers normal mobility was regained. A case of posttraumatic synostosis of the forearm bones is also presented. The synostosis was excised and recurrence prevented by Silastic sheet isolation. Considering the use of Silastic subtendon implants on the flexor side of the finger, the material available does not permit any conclusions to be drawn.