When is AROM of the wrist usually started after operative claw deformity repair?

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Multiple Choice

When is AROM of the wrist usually started after operative claw deformity repair?

Postoperative protection of a tendon transfer used to correct claw deformity is essential. After this repair, the transferred tendon needs time to heal and establish proper tension, so the wrist is kept relatively still for a few weeks in a protective splint. Beginning active wrist movement around six weeks provides enough healing time to reduce the risk of rupture or overstressing the reconstruction, while still allowing progressive motion before stiffness sets in. Moving earlier (at two weeks or immediately post-op) increases the risk of compromising the repair, and waiting until twelve weeks can lead to unnecessary stiffness and limited glide. Thus six weeks is the typical time to start AROM of the wrist.

Postoperative protection of a tendon transfer used to correct claw deformity is essential. After this repair, the transferred tendon needs time to heal and establish proper tension, so the wrist is kept relatively still for a few weeks in a protective splint. Beginning active wrist movement around six weeks provides enough healing time to reduce the risk of rupture or overstressing the reconstruction, while still allowing progressive motion before stiffness sets in. Moving earlier (at two weeks or immediately post-op) increases the risk of compromising the repair, and waiting until twelve weeks can lead to unnecessary stiffness and limited glide. Thus six weeks is the typical time to start AROM of the wrist.

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