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At Regional Hand Center, serving Merced, Visalia, and Fresno, we specialize in expert care for hand injuries, including tendon repairs. Tendon injuries affect hand function in unique ways depending on whether the extensor or flexor tendons are involved. Understanding the differences in treatment helps patients prepare for surgery and recovery.
Anatomy and Function
- Extensor Tendons: Located on the back of the hand and fingers, these tendons enable finger and thumb extension, allowing you to straighten your digits.
- Flexor Tendons: Found on the palm side, these tendons facilitate finger bending and gripping motions.
Injuries to extensor tendons impair the ability to straighten fingers, while flexor tendon injuries reduce the ability to bend or grip objects.
Surgical Approach Differences
Extensor Tendon Repair:
- Typically less complex due to the tendons’ more superficial position.
- Often performed under local anesthesia.
- Requires skilled technique to repair thin tendons and prevent adhesions.
Flexor Tendon Repair:
- More intricate surgery because tendons lie near nerves and vessels in a confined space.
- Usually performed under general anesthesia.
- Requires microsurgical precision to restore gliding motion and minimize scarring.
Recovery and Rehabilitation
Extensor Tendon Repair:
- Immobilization with splints is common to protect the repair.
- Early controlled, gentle movement is encouraged to reduce stiffness.
- Rehabilitation is important but often less intensive and shorter in duration.
Flexor Tendon Repair:
- Requires a longer, more structured rehabilitation program often guided by specialized hand therapists.
- Initial immobilization is followed by carefully monitored motion protocols to prevent adhesion and promote healing.
- Therapy is typically more rigorous and prolonged to restore strength and flexibility.
Expected Outcomes and Challenges
Extensor Repairs:
- Generally have a favorable prognosis.
- Possible challenges include stiffness, incomplete extension, or mild weakness.
Flexor Repairs:
- Carry higher risks of complications such as tendon adhesions or ruptures.
- Success depends heavily on adherence to therapy and close follow-up.
Why Choose Regional Hand Center?
Our board-certified hand surgeons, including Dr. Randi Galli, Dr. Ricardo Avena, and Dr. Isobel Santos, bring specialized expertise in both extensor and flexor tendon repairs. They tailor surgical and rehabilitation plans to each patient’s needs, ensuring the best possible outcome.
With convenient locations in Merced, Visalia, and Fresno, Regional Hand Center offers comprehensive, expert care close to home. If you have a tendon injury or questions about treatment, trust our experienced team to guide you safely through recovery.
Take the first step toward restoring your hand function by contacting Regional Hand Center. We are here to provide personalized evaluations and expert surgical care to help you get back to the things you love.
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