Tenoscopy of the Digital Flexor Tendon Sheath

Tenoscopy enables us to obtain a view of the inside of the digital flexor tendon sheath.

In case of an effusion of the digital flexor tendon sheath, further examination is crucial, since an effusion (tenosynovitis) is not a diagnosis but a symptom which can have different causes. Only in rare cases is there a primary irritation of the tendon sheath without further defects. Using ultrasonography, contrast radiography and tenoscopy the cause can be more accurately determined. A common cause for tenosynovitis is a lesion of the tendon which runs through it. Such a longitudinal tear can be very well visualised using tenoscopy. Furthermore, it is possible to scrape out an existing defect intraoperatively to improve chances of recovery.

Commonly occurring, non-irritated so-called “windgalls” which are often present in more than one leg have to be differentiated from painful digital flexor tendon sheath inflammation (tenosynovitis). Annular Ligament Syndrome is also an indication for tenoscopy.