Tendon Lacerations
Understanding Hand Flexor and Extensor Tendon Lacerations
Hand tendon injuries are serious conditions that can limit motion, grip strength, and overall hand function. The flexor tendons bend your fingers and wrist, while the extensor tendons straighten them. When these tendons are cut, torn, or lacerated, normal finger movement becomes impossible without specialized repair.
Common Symptoms of a Tendon Injury
Loss of motion: Inability to fully bend or straighten one or more fingers after a laceration to the finger or hand
Open wound or deep cut: Especially on the palm, wrist, or back of the hand.
Pain and swelling: Worsens with finger movement or pressure.
Weakness or numbness: May occur if nerves or blood vessels are also injured.
“Finger won’t move” sign: A classic symptom of a complete tendon laceration.
If you cannot actively move a finger after a hand injury, it’s important to seek urgent evaluation by a hand surgeon. For small laceration direct presentation to a hand surgeon or urgent care is appropriate. For large or contaminated laceration the ER can provide best initial management of these injuries.
What Causes Flexor and Extensor Tendon Lacerations
Most tendon lacerations are caused by sharp injuries such as knives, glass, or power tools. Flexor tendon injuries commonly occur in the palm or fingers, while extensor tendon injuries often happen on the back of the hand or wrist. Even a small wound can cause a complete laceration, making expert evaluation essential.
Diagnosis
A hand and upper extremity specialist is the best individual to determine if you have a lacerated tendon and if surgery is necessary. At your visit we will carefully examine your hand to test motion, strength, and sensation. In rare cases, ultrasound or MRI imaging is needed to better define the extent of the injury. Prompt diagnosis ensures the best chance for full tendon healing and motion recovery. Tendon repairs have the best chance of recovery if repaired within 3 weeks of injury.
Treatment Options for Hand Tendon Lacerations
Surgical repair: The torn ends of the tendon are precisely reconnected using fine sutures under magnification. Early repair provides the best functional outcome.
Wound care: Cleaning and protecting the area reduces the risk of infection and scar adhesion.
Splinting: A custom splint or cast positions your hand safely to protect the repair.
Hand therapy: Guided rehabilitation with a certified hand therapist begins soon after surgery to restore controlled motion and prevent stiffness.
Flexor tendon repair and extensor tendon repair both require specialized surgical technique and early, protected therapy to regain smooth motion and strength.
Recovery and Rehabilitation
Tendon healing typically takes 8–12 weeks, followed by progressive strengthening. Full time splinting is required for 6 weeks after surgery for most tendon lacerations. Early motion protocols are used to prevent stiffness while keeping the repair safe. Strict adherence to therapy and surgeon rehab protocol will decrease the chance of the repar coming apart due to excessive motion. Close collaboration between your surgeon and hand therapist is critical for optimal recovery.
When to See a Hand Surgeon
Deep or bleeding hand lacerations
Inability to bend or straighten a finger
Visible tendon or loss of motion after injury
Persistent hand weakness or numbness
Learn more about expert hand tendon repair and rehabilitation with Dr. Christopher English, fellowship-trained hand and upper extremity surgeon in Layton, Utah.
Offering minimally invasive tendon surgery, advanced rehabilitation protocols, and personalized recovery plans for patients throughout Davis County and the north Salt Lake metro area.