Extensor Tendon Injury
Extensor tendons are the tendons on the dorsal (back) side of the wrist and hand that enable you to extend (straighten) your fingers and wrist. Often, these injuries occur at the ends of the finger when people impact or “jam” their fingers, which is called a mallet finger. other times, extensor tendon injuries occur due to a cut or laceration directly over the back of the hand or fingers.
Causes and risks factors
A deep cut or laceration in the wrist, palm or finger
Closed flexion injury to the finger
Certain medical conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis may place patients at a higher risk of developing a tendon injury
Symptoms
Pain, swelling in the wrist/palm/hand
Inability to extend (straighten) a digit or one of the joints of a digit
Diagnosis and treatment
In most cases, the diagnosis is made clinically based off your physical examination findings. Additional imaging such as MRI or ultrasound can be used to confirm the diagnosis. Closed injuries especially at the end of the finger which are called mallet injuries and are generally treated non-surgically with prolonged splinting.
If a extensor tendon is completely lacerated or ruptured, then surgery is often advised to regain motion and maximize long term function. While overall outcomes with surgery are good, rehabilitation can be lengthy and requires dedicated hand therapy. Most patients will regain the ability to use the affected digit, but the motion may not return to normal. Occasionally patients develop significant scar tissue that can affect their function and may require additional surgery to release. If you have suffered an extensor tendon injury, Dr. Holt will discuss treatment options expectations to develop an optimized treatment plan.
Extensor Tendon Repair Surgery Information/Post Operative Instructions
Additional Information/Links: