A randomised comparative trial of patients following surgical repair of finger flexor tendons, comparing the effect of two splints, on patient-reported hand function and quality of life and clinician-reported range of motion and grip strength.

The study intervention is the Manchester short splint. This is a splint that extends from the back of the wrist crease to the fingertips. As per usual clinical practice, this splint will be custom-made by a hand therapist (physiotherapist or occupational therapist) and applied within the first 5 days post-operatively, with instructions to wear the splint full time for the first 6 weeks post-operatively (this may be shortened to approximately 5 weeks if indicated due to severe adhesions/stiffness and/or difficulty regaining range of motion, as per usual clinical practice). The position of joints within the splint will, as per usual clinical practice, be customised for the zone of repair and the position modified if required by individual factors such as associated nerve repair/tension. Participant feedback about adherence to splint wear will be recorded.