Abstract
Background. Flexor tendon repair damage to both deep and superficial flexor tendons injuries, especially in zone II, has special importance that distinguishes it from other zones. This study evaluated the effect of atorvastatin, a cheap, available, and non-cytotoxic drug, on the adhesion phenomenon resulting from tissue repair.
Methods. Overall, 52 patients were included in this study. Patients were randomly divided into two groups. In the first group, atorvastatin 20 mg was administered daily for three weeks. In the control group, a placebo was used for three weeks. After 3 months, the range of motion, extension gap, extension lag, and flexion gap for each finger were measured and compared in the two groups.
Results. Based on the results, using atorvastatin led to an increase in the range of motion in distal interphalangeal (DIP) injured patients. In addition, extension, flexion gap, and extension lag in both groups were the same. The rate of improvement in the range of motion in smokers was significantly lower.
Conclusion. Using atorvastatin in surgical patients appears to be effective in increasing the range of motion of DIP and improving this adhesion. The negative effects of smoke on the rate of improvement that have been investigated in limited studies in this area should not be ignored either.
Practical Implications. In surgery to repair the flexor tendon, using atorvastatin has really helped improve the ability to move the DIP joint. Patients are also asked to stop smoking temporarily to make their recovery go faster.