Tendons are responsible for connecting muscles to bone. The fingers have tendons that run from the forearm through the finger. The extensor tendons are located on the back of the hand and fingers. They enable you to open your hand and straighten your fingers. An extensor tendon injury is a cut or tear to one of these tendons. When they are damaged you can lose the ability to extend your hand and/or finger(s). Two common extensor injuries include:
If you suspect you have this condition, contact your doctor promptly. The sooner treatment is begun, the better the outcome.
Extensor tendon injuries may be caused by:
These factors increase your chance of an extensor tendon injury. Tell your doctor if you have any of these risk factors:
If you have any of these symptoms do not assume it is due to an extensor tendon injury. These may be caused by other conditions. Tell your doctor if you have any of these symptoms:
Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done. During the exam you will be asked to bend and straighten your fingers. Your doctor will also check your fingers for sensation, blood flow, and strength. You may be referred to a hand surgeon or an orthopedist (doctor who specializes in bones).
Your doctor may order the following test:
Talk with your doctor about the best plan for you. Depending upon the type of injury, you may require surgery. Surgery may be scheduled immediately or within several days.
Treatment options include the following:
Depending upon the type of injury, you may receive antibiotics to prevent infection.
Tendons that are cut or ruptured require surgery. The hand surgeon may sew the tendon back together. A pin may need to be inserted through the bone to form an inside splint of sorts.
After surgery, you will be given a splint to protect your hand. Your doctor will tell you how long to wear it. It may be up to two months.
A physical therapist will work with you for several weeks to regain your strength and range of motion. Right after surgery, movement will be limited so that your hand can heal.
Some extensor tendon injuries are treated with a hand splint. Splints are worn until healing has occurred. This is usually several weeks.
RESOURCES:
American Academy
of Orthopaedic Surgeons
http://www.aaos.org
American Society for Surgery of the Hand
http://www.assh.org
CANADIAN RESOURCES:
The Canadian Orthopaedic Association
http://www.coa-aco.org/
Canadian Orthopaedic Foundation
http://www.canorth.org/
References:
Extensor tendon injuries. American Society for Surgery of the Hand website. Available at: http://www.assh.org/Content/NavigationMenu/PatientsPublic/HandConditions/ExtensorTendonInjuries/Extensor_Tendon_Inj.htm . Accessed November 13, 2008.
Extensor tendon injuries FAQs. American Society for Surgery of the Hand website. Available at: http://www.handsurgery.org/pdf/extensorinjuries.pdf . Accessed November 13, 2008.
Leggit JC, Meko CJ. Acute Finger Injuries: Part I. Tendons and Ligaments. American Academy of Family Physicians website. Available at: http://www.aafp.org/afp/20060301/810.html . Accessed November 13, 2008.
Last reviewed December 2008 by John C. Keel, MD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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