A low cost model for teaching tendon repair

3. The adhesive backed 'hook' Velcro ® is adhered to the thermoplastic , passed under the distal phalanx and wrapped around the spring on the other side of the Ligamentotaxor ® device, fastening to the loop Velcro ® underneath, thereby supporting the distal phalanx (Fig 2). DISCUSSION Prompt recognition of extensor lag and treatment using this frame modification arrests progression of the problem and facilitates its resolution. We recommend use of the Ligamentotaxor ® sling in all cases complicated by extension lag. the proximal interphalangeal joint: surgical complications and long-term results. management of complex intra-articular fractures at the base of the middle phalanges of fingers. displaced comminuted intra-articular phalangeal fractures. 4. Allison DM. Fractures of the base of the middle phalanx treated by a dynamic external fixation device. Figure 1 Velcro ® is bonded to Orfit thermoplastic and attached to Ligamentotaxor ® device. Figure 2 Sling is passed under distal phalanx, looped around device and fastened. BACKGROUND A recent technical note suggested that a drinking straw is a suitable model for the teaching of tendon repair and offered advantages over silicone rods. 1 We have developed an alternative model based on the drinking straw using silicone sealant. TECHNIQUE Easily available commercial silicone sealant is used to create the model (No Nonsense ® Sanitary Silicone Clear; Screwfix, Yeovil, UK). A standard drinking straw is filled from one end with silicone sealant. Under pressure, the sealant will flow to the opposite end of the straw. The sealant is then left to cure for two weeks. The model should be left in a well ventilated area as acetic acid is produced during the curing process. Once set, the drinking straw can be cut away from the model (Fig 1). Figure 1 Silicone model for the teaching of tendon repair DISCUSSION We have found this model provides better suture handling feedback than the drinking straw model described previously. 1 The silicone model maintains the position of inserted suture material and the accuracy of insertion can be assessed by a trainer as the model is transparent. The 'feel' of the model imitates that of a human tendon more realistically and marks made by the injudicious use of forceps during tendon handling are also seen easily. Different sizes of model can be made to replicate biological structures of differing diameters by using straws of varying size. A 310ml cartridge of sealant can be purchased for £2.89. …