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Treatment for Flexor Tendon Injuries

A ruptured tendon cannot heal without surgery because the cut ends usually pull away after an injury.

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

Depending on the injury, you will be advised to start hand therapy for a few weeks following surgery. This is to improve the movement of the finger. Follow your surgeon’s specific instructions for a successful recovery. 

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.