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What is Extensor Tendon Repair?
Tendons are very strong, fibrous tissues that work as levers to help your body move. They work by pulling their attached bones when they receive movement signals from the brain and muscles. Tendons can become injured from overuse and limit your mobility. Because they are typically very close to the surface of the skin, they are easily susceptible to lacerations or force, as well.
The extensor tendons are the tendons in your hands responsible for straightening your fingers. Extensor tendon repair is a surgical procedure that repairs the damaged extensor tendons. Because the extensor tendons are easily accessible surgically, this procedure is relatively easy and straightforward. Still, to get best results, it’s best to partner with an experienced orthopedic hand specialist.
Why Would I Need Extensor Tendon Repair?
Extensor tendon repair is needed when one or more of the extensor tendons are damaged, split, severed, or ruptured. Damage to the extensor tendons can greatly impair your everyday hand mobility and, depending on the severity of your injury, you may not regain full mobility without surgery. Your orthopedic hand specialist can assess your unique circumstances and recommend whether surgery is the best approach.
What Can I Expect From Extensor Tendon Repair?
Extensor tendon repair can be performed using a local anesthetic. Your orthopedic hand specialist will create a small incision and locate the two ends of the tendon. The ends are stitched back together, and the area is dressed for your recovery. You’ll be fitted with a splint to keep the area stable and prevent movement for several weeks.
Extensor Tendon Repair Aftercare
The outcome of extensor tendon repair surgery is typically very good. You can expect to have swelling and bruising after surgery, as well as discomfort as the anesthetic wears off. You’ll be given detailed aftercare instructions by our team as well as prescribed medications. It can take a long time for your hand to recover, and it will likely feel very weak at first. Your orthopedic hand specialist will likely recommend physical therapy to help regain use of the hand. You can expect to recover within three months with restrictions on activities for around six months.
Schedule a Consultation at the Regional Hand Center
Extensor tendon repair is a relatively simple way to repair injuries and regain mobility. To meet with our team of orthopedic hand specialists, contact our Fresno, CA office by calling or filling out our online form.
Patient Resources
Whether you are planning a procedure or you are interested in options for treatment, the professional and caring Regional Hand Center team makes it easy to find the answers you need. For an appointment or answers to your questions, call (559) 322-HAND.
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Randi A. Galli, MD, FACS
Board-Certified Surgeon
Dr. Randi Galli is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgeons and a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons. A member of Alpha Omega Alpha, the medical honor society that comprises the top ten percent of medical students, Dr. Galli received his Medical Degree from Tulane University School…
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Ricardo Avena, MD, FACS
Board-Certified Surgeon
Dr. Ricardo Avena is board certified by the American Board of Surgery and is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons. Born and raised in Mexico City, Dr. Avena attended medical school at the National Autonomous University of Mexico. Upon graduation, Dr. Avena received his certification from the Educational…
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Isobel Santos, MD
Board-Certified Surgeon
Dr. Santos attended the University of California, Berkeley with a B.A in Molecular and Cell Biology with a focus on Cell and Developmental Biology. She then received her medical degree at University of Vermont College of Medicine where she was nominated to be a member of the Alpha Omega Alpha…
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