In flexor tendon repair, how does the number of suture threads influence rehabilitation decisions?

In flexor tendon repair, how does the number of suture threads influence rehabilitation decisions?

• A. Fewer threads in the repair allow earlier PROM/AROM
• B. More threads in the repair generally allow earlier PROM or ARom
• C. The number of threads has no impact on ROM progression
• D. More threads require longer immobilization

Answer: (B)

Increasing the number of suture strands strengthens the repair. A stronger repair can withstand the forces generated during early movement, so early passive or active ROM can be started safely, which helps prevent stiffness and adhesions. When there are fewer threads, the repair is weaker and more prone to gapping or rupture under load, so rehabilitation must be more cautious and ROM is delayed. The idea that the number of threads has no impact or that more threads mean longer immobilization doesn’t fit with how repair strength guides safe mobilization.

Increasing the number of suture strands strengthens the repair. A stronger repair can withstand the forces generated during early movement, so early passive or active ROM can be started safely, which helps prevent stiffness and adhesions. When there are fewer threads, the repair is weaker and more prone to gapping or rupture under load, so rehabilitation must be more cautious and ROM is delayed. The idea that the number of threads has no impact or that more threads mean longer immobilization doesn’t fit with how repair strength guides safe mobilization.