Where are the extensor tendons in the hand?
Extensor tendons are just under the skin. They lie next to the bone on the back of the hands and fingers and straighten the wrist, fingers and thumb (Figure 1). They can be injured by a minor cut or jamming a finger, which may cause the thin tendons to rip from their attachment to bone.
How many extensor tendons are in the hand?
As with all disorders of the hand, diagnosis and correct therapy application hinges on a thorough understanding of the relevant anatomy. The upper extremity contains 12 extensor tendons. These tendons comprise an extensor system that dorsally maneuvers the wrist, thumb, and all fingers.
What are extensor tendon zones?
Zone I refers to the area from the DIP joint to the fingertip; zone II encompasses the middle phalanx; zone III refers to the PIP joint; zone IV is over the proximal phalanx; zone V refers to the MP joint; zone VI encompasses the metacarpal and zone VII is over the wrist (see Fig.
Where is your extensor tendon located?
Extensor tendons run just underneath the skin along the back of the hands and wrists. They control the hand’s ability to straighten the fingers and wrists.
How do you repair an extensor tendon?
What are the treatment options? Surgery will be required in order to repair the damaged tendon. A small incision is made to locate the ends of the tendon and they are then stitched back together. Because extensor tendons are easy to reach they are relatively easy to repair.
Can a extensor tendon heal on its own?
In these cases, the tendon is often cut into two pieces. Like a rubber band, tendons are under tension as they connect the muscle to the bone. If a tendon is torn or cut, the ends of the tendon will pull far apart, making it impossible for the tendon to heal on its own.
Can extensor tendon heal without surgery?
In some cases, damage to the extensor tendons can be treated without the need for surgery, using a rigid support called a splint that’s worn around the hand. Common causes of tendon injuries include: cuts – cuts across the back or palm of your hand can result in injury to your tendons.
How do you heal an extensor tendon?
How are extensor tendon injuries treated? Cuts that split the tendon may need stitches or surgical repair, but tears caused by jamming injuries are usually treated with splints. Splints stop the healing ends of the tendons from pulling apart and should be worn at all times until the tendon is fully healed.
How long does it take for extensor tendon to heal?
The tendon may take four to eight weeks, or longer in some patients, to heal completely. Removing the splint early may result in drooping of the fingertip, which may then require additional splinting. Your physician will instruct you to remove the splint at the proper time.
How do you fix an extensor tendon?
How long does it take for an extensor tendon to heal?
The tendon may take four to eight weeks, or longer in some patients, to heal completely. Removing the splint early may result in drooping of the fingertip, which may then require additional splinting.
Can extensor tendons heal on their own?
In some cases, damage to the extensor tendons can be treated without the need for surgery, using a rigid support called a splint that’s worn around the hand.
What happens if you tear your extensor tendon?
Lacerations or cuts on the back of the hand that go through the extensor tendons cause difficulty in straightening the finger at the large joint where the fingers join the hand. These injuries are usually treated surgically by stitching the tendon ends together.