Conditions - H

Hand tendon repair is a surgical procedure performed to restore the function and integrity of a damaged tendon in the hand. Tendons are fibrous tissues that connect muscles to bones, allowing for movement of the joints. When a tendon in the hand is injured or ruptured, it can result in pain, weakness, and limited mobility. Hand tendon repair surgery aims to reattach the torn tendon, strengthen the injured area, and promote healing to restore hand function.

Indications for Hand Tendon Repair

Hand tendon repair may be recommended for individuals with:

• Tendon Lacerations: Partial or complete tears of a tendon in the hand due to trauma, lacerations, or penetrating injuries.
• Tendon Ruptures: Complete separation or avulsion of the tendon from its attachment site on the bone.
• Tendonitis: Chronic inflammation or degeneration of a tendon in the hand, which may require surgical intervention if conservative treatments are ineffective.
• Tendon Adhesions: Formation of scar tissue or adhesions around the tendon, limiting its movement and function.

Procedure

Hand tendon repair surgery is typically performed under local or regional anesthesia and may involve the following steps:

1. Incision: The surgeon makes an incision over the injured area of the hand to access the damaged tendon.
2. Tendon Exposure: The torn ends of the tendon are identified and carefully dissected to expose the injury site.
3. Tendon Repair: The surgeon reattaches the torn ends of the tendon using specialized sutures or techniques, such as end-to-end repair, side-to-side repair, or tendon grafting.
4. Tendon Reinforcement: In some cases, additional reinforcement may be needed to strengthen the repaired tendon, such as using suture anchors, tendon transfers, or tendon grafts from other parts of the body.
5. Closure: The incision is closed with sutures, and a sterile dressing or splint may be applied to protect the repaired tendon and promote healing.

Recovery

Recovery following hand tendon repair surgery varies depending on the extent of the injury, the type of repair performed, and individual factors. However, the following general guidelines may apply:

• Immobilization: The hand may be placed in a splint or cast to protect the repaired tendon and allow it to heal properly. The duration of immobilization depends on the type of repair and surgeon's recommendations.
• Physical Therapy: After the initial healing period, a structured rehabilitation program supervised by a physical therapist is typically initiated to gradually restore range of motion, strength, and function of the hand.
• Activity Modification: Activities that place stress on the repaired tendon, such as heavy lifting or repetitive movements, should be avoided during the early stages of recovery to prevent re-injury.
• Follow-Up Care: Regular follow-up appointments with the surgeon are scheduled to monitor healing, remove sutures or splints, and adjust the treatment plan as needed.
• Return to Activities: Full recovery and return to normal activities may take several weeks to months, depending on the individual's progress and the severity of the injury.

Risks and Complications

While hand tendon repair surgery is generally safe and effective, potential risks and complications may include:

• Infection: Risk of surgical site infection, which may require antibiotics or additional treatment.
• Tendon Re-rupture: Failure of the repaired tendon to heal properly, resulting in re-rupture or decreased strength.
• Scar Formation: Formation of scar tissue around the repaired tendon, which may affect hand function and range of motion.
• Nerve Damage: Injury to nearby nerves during surgery, leading to numbness, tingling, or loss of sensation in the hand or fingers.
• Stiffness or Loss of Motion: Restricted range of motion or stiffness in the hand or fingers due to prolonged immobilization or inadequate rehabilitation.

Conclusion

Hand tendon repair surgery is a specialized procedure performed to restore the function and integrity of a damaged tendon in the hand. By addressing tendon injuries promptly and effectively, individuals can regain hand function, mobility, and quality of life. If you have sustained a hand injury or are experiencing hand pain or weakness, consult a healthcare professional for evaluation and appropriate management, which may include hand tendon repair surgery if indicated.