Treating Flexor Tendon Lacerations

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Treating Flexor Tendon Lacerations

Your doctor can tell if your flexor tendon is cut by examining your finger. If the wound is very deep, the finger may be x-rayed to make sure the bone isn't damaged, too. If the flexor tendon is cut all the way through, your doctor will do surgery to rejoin the two ends of the tendon and repair any other damaged tissue. After surgery, you'll need to follow a specific exercise program to regain movement in the finger.

Zigzag-shaped
incision

Your Surgery

• Your surgeon first exposes the cut tendon with a zigzag-shaped incision.

• Then he or she finds the two separated ends and stitches them back together. In some cases, your surgeon may need to graft a new tendon to replace the cut one.

• Nerves and other soft tissue may also need to be repaired.

• Surgery generally takes 2 to 3 hours. You may be given anesthesia to make you sleep, or only the hand and arm may be numbed. In either case, you feel no pain during surgery. Usually you can go home the same day.

Starting Your Recovery

Your hand may be in a splint or cast for several weeks after surgery. This protects the tendon as it heals. You will probably start a gentle exercise program soon after surgery. Exercising your finger as directed by your doctor or therapist is very important. Surgery creates scar tissue inside the finger. Without regular exercise, this tissue will stick to the tendon and the bone. Then you won't be able to bend your finger easily. As the tendon heals, you'll slowly begin to strengthen the tendon and muscles, and move your finger more. Recovery usually takes 6 to 12 weeks.