In a dorsal block splint for flexor tendon repair, the affected digit is typically held in which position?

In a dorsal block splint for flexor tendon repair, the affected digit is typically held in which position?

• A. Full extension
• B. Further flexion
• C. Neutral
• D. 30 degrees of extension

Answer: (B)

A dorsal block splint is used to protect a repaired flexor tendon while still allowing controlled motion, and it achieves this by positioning the finger so the metacarpophalangeal joints are held in flexion. This flexed posture blocks full MCP flexion and creates a safe position in which the IP joints can glide and move, promoting tendon excursion without placing excessive tension on the repair. That means the digit is held in a flexed, or “further flexion,” position to protect the repair during early mobilization. Holding the finger in full extension, neutral, or only mild extension would not provide the same protective posture for the repair and would not facilitate the same controlled IP motion that the dorsal block approach aims to achieve.

A dorsal block splint is used to protect a repaired flexor tendon while still allowing controlled motion, and it achieves this by positioning the finger so the metacarpophalangeal joints are held in flexion. This flexed posture blocks full MCP flexion and creates a safe position in which the IP joints can glide and move, promoting tendon excursion without placing excessive tension on the repair. That means the digit is held in a flexed, or “further flexion,” position to protect the repair during early mobilization.

Holding the finger in full extension, neutral, or only mild extension would not provide the same protective posture for the repair and would not facilitate the same controlled IP motion that the dorsal block approach aims to achieve.