Types of Tendon Injuries
Tendons on the palm side that bend the fingers. Commonly injured by cuts with glass or knives. Require meticulous repair due to complex anatomy in the finger. "No man's land" (Zone 2) injuries are particularly challenging.
Tendons on the back of the hand that straighten the fingers. Include mallet finger, boutonniere injuries, and sagittal band ruptures. Often occur with lacerations or closed injuries like jamming the finger.
Treatment
Surgical repair is required for complete tendon lacerations. The goals are to restore tendon continuity, achieve smooth gliding, and prevent adhesions that limit movement.
Modern techniques include:
- Primary repair: Direct suturing of tendon ends using strong core sutures
- Early active motion protocol: Controlled movement within days of surgery to prevent adhesions
- Tendon grafting: For delayed cases or when tendons are badly damaged
- Two-stage reconstruction: For complex cases with scarring
Hand therapy is essential – typically starting within the first week after surgery with a specific protocol supervised by a trained hand therapist.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if a tendon is cut?+
Cut tendons cannot heal on their own and require surgical repair. Without surgery, you will permanently lose the ability to bend or straighten the affected finger. Tendon repair should be done within 2 weeks of injury for best results.
How long does tendon repair surgery take?+
Tendon repair surgery typically takes 1-2 hours depending on the number of tendons involved and complexity. It's usually performed under regional anaesthesia (arm block) as a day care procedure.
How much does tendon repair cost in Hyderabad?+
Hand tendon repair surgery costs approximately ₹50,000-1,00,000 in Hyderabad depending on the number of tendons, zone of injury, and complexity. Insurance typically covers traumatic tendon injuries.
How long is recovery after tendon repair?+
Recovery involves protective splinting for 4-6 weeks with controlled early motion protocol. Full healing takes 3 months, with return to heavy activities at 4-6 months. Hand therapy is crucial for optimal outcomes.
Can I regain full movement after tendon repair?+
With proper surgical repair and rehabilitation, 70-85% of patients regain good to excellent function. Results depend on the zone of injury, number of tendons involved, associated injuries, and compliance with therapy.
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YOUR TREATING SURGEON
Dr. Deepthi Nandan Reddy
Senior Consultant Orthopaedic & Upper-Limb Surgeon | Apollo Hospitals
Why Choose Dr. Deepthi Nandan Reddy?
International fellowship training combined with decades of experience delivering world-class upper limb care
UK CCT
Certificate of Completion of Training - One of few Indian surgeons with NHS Consultant experience
FRCS (UK)
Fellow of Royal College of Surgeons, Edinburgh & UK
Mayo Clinic Fellow
British Shoulder & Elbow Society - Mayo Clinic Travelling Fellowship
SESI President
President, Shoulder & Elbow Society of India
30+ Years Experience
15,000+ patients treated, 5,000+ surgeries performed
Published Researcher
Co-author of Operative Elbow Surgery, international conference faculty
Dr. Reddy's Specialty Clinics
Comprehensive Upper Limb Care
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