HSS Ultrasound Case 65

Clinical History 39 year old female with inability to flex either the proximal or distal interphalangeal joints of the left pinky after finger laceration with a glass.

Dynamic ultrasound was requested to assess the integrity of the flexor digitorum profundus (FDS) and superficialis (FDS) tendons.

Ultrasound of the Month – Case 65

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Ultrasound of the Month – Case 65

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Ultrasound of the Month – Case 65

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Diagnosis Complete laceration of the flexor digitorum profundus and superficialis tendons with a tendinous gap.

Discussion Penetrating injuries such as accidental lacerations from a glass or knife are relatively common in the wrists and hands, and the laceration can cause a tendon tear if deep enough.

The superficial location of these tendons and relative thinness of the overlying soft tissues make ultrasound a quick and ideal modality for assessing the integrity of these tendons.

Ultrasound of the Month – Case 65

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Discussion When a tendon is completely torn, determining the size of the tendinous gap is important for preoperative planning.

In our case, the tendinous gap was approximately 2 cm, between the MCP and PIP joints.

Ultrasound of the Month – Case 65

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