- Discussion:
- extends from base of palm or distal end of transverse retinacular ligament to transverse crease in the palm;
- extends just proximal to the IP joint and to the MP joint;
- in this region tendons are essentially free of a tendon sheath
- lacerations in zone III may affect lumbricals inaddition to flexor tendons;
- damaged lumbrical is either repaired or excised depending on severity or injury and the location of the laceration;
- if lumbricals are intact, it is left adjacent to FDP repair;
- it is not wrapped around the repaired flexor;
- lumbrical contracture is avoided if this muscle is not tightened or manipulated excessively during the repair;
- if both tendons are lacerated, both are repaired, end to end with circumferential reenforcing sutures;
- excision of the superficialis tendon is not advised