Upper limb dysfunction resulting from spaghetti wrist:

A long-term analysis of functional outcomes

Abstract

We investigated the occupational therapy for a case of spaghetti wrist due to a work-related contusion accident. Early post-operative OT interventions included splinting, graded tendon exercises for independent flexor digits, and perceptual and functional training. Although improvement in both grasping ability and sensory function of the median nerve area were observed until 19 months after the operation, ulnar nerve palsy remained. Therefore, by confirming the tension of the suture tendon and vasculature, early nerve mobilization and perceptual training can improve motor and sensory function. Therapy should include exercise of the flexor digit tendons independently 4 weeks after surgery. However, it is important to confirm the degree of nervous and vascular injury.