Second Annular Pulley Rupture
Rupture of the A2 pulley is a relatively common injury and in one study (5) has been reported in up to 40% of professional climbers. Rupture occurs as a result of the excessive stress on the A2 pulley during a cling grip. The long and ring fingers are most commonly involved. Pulley rupture can occur acutely or develop insidiously.
A patient who has acute pulley rupture complains of acute pain in the volar proximal phalanx region. The area is tender to palpation, and visible and palpable bowstringing of the flexor tendons is usually noted during active resisted finger flexion (figure 6: not shown). The diagnosis may be difficult, and a limited magnetic resonance imaging scan or computed tomography scan may be necessary to help determine the integrity of the pulley and flexor tendons (6,8).
Minor A2 pulley injuries or partial tears with no evidence of bowstringing can be treated with either firm circumferential taping overlying the pulley or with a ring splint, worn full-time for 2 to 3 months to permit healing. Patients should also take time off from climbing.
The management of complete tears with tendon bowstringing is controversial. Surgical options include pulley repair or reconstruction (6,8,9). If there is any uncertainty regarding the diagnosis of A2 pulley rupture or the management of this type of injury, referral is recommended.