Flexor Tendon Injuries Mesquite NV | Flexor Tendon Repair St. George UT
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Anatomy of Hand Tendons
Tendons are bands of fibrous connective tissue that connect muscles to bone. Tendons aid in the movement of the fingers, hand and all other body parts.
There are two types of tendons present in the hand: the extensor tendons and flexor tendons. Extensor tendons present on top of the hand help straighten the fingers, while flexor tendons that lie on the palm side of the hand help in bending the fingers.
Flexor tendon tears may be partial or complete. If tendons are completely cut through, the finger joints cannot bend on their own.
Any cut or laceration in the arm, hand or fingers can cause a flexor tendon injury. Other possible causes include:
Damage to the tendon from a sports injury, often associated with football, rugby and wrestling
Jersey finger: When a player’s finger catches on another player’s jersey or clothing
First Aid for Flexor Tendon Injuries
Apply ice immediately to the injured finger. Wrap a sterile cloth or bandage around the injury and keep your finger elevated above your heart level to reduce bleeding if present. A tetanus injection may need to be administered.
Diagnosis of Flexor Tendon Injuries
Your doctor will review your symptoms and medical history. A physical examination of both your hands will be performed. During the examination, you will be asked to bend and straighten your fingers. Your fingers will also be examined for sensation, blood flow and strength. An X-ray may be ordered to check for any damage to the surrounding bone.
Treatment for Flexor Tendon Injuries
There are many options to repair a cut tendon; the type of repair depends on the type of cut. The aim of the procedure is to restore the normal function of the joints and surrounding tissues following a tendon laceration.
Flexor tendon repair is usually an outpatient procedure and can be performed under local or general anesthesia. Your surgeon makes an incision on the skin over the injured tendon. The damaged ends of the tendon are brought together with sutures to achieve a secure repair. If the tendon injury is severe, a graft may be required. A graft is a piece of tendon that is derived from another part of your body such as a foot or toe. After the repositioning of the tendon, the incisions are closed with sutures and a dressing pad is placed over the surgical site. Your surgeon will place your hand in a protective splint to restrict movements.
Postoperative Care after Flexor Tendon Repair
Risks and Complications of Flexor Tendon Repair
The possible complications of flexor tendon repair include pain, bleeding, infection, stiffness, rupture of the repair, and damage to the surrounding nerves or blood vessels. A second surgery may be needed to release any excess scar tissue that interferes with finger movement.