Fig. 2

Preparation of the specimen for testing. Identifying and isolating the deep flexor tendons just proximal to the carpal tunnel (A); and the extensor just distal to the extensor retinaculum (B); all tendons were sutured proximally with a Krakow suture and were passed through silicon tubes (black arrow) to facilitated smooth motion. A saline solution was applied via the tubes to maintain tissue hydration and prevent tissue desiccation (C)