Our Summary

This research paper discusses how injuries to the tendons in the hand often heal with too much scarring and adhesion to nearby tissues, which can interfere with the normal functioning of the hand. The tendons in the hand work like a pulley system, so any interference can cause problems. Even with the best surgical techniques and physical therapy, it’s hard to completely restore hand function.

The current focus of tendon injury research is on improving surgical techniques and post-surgery recovery. The recommended treatment involves a combination of different types of sutures (stitches) and starting physical therapy as soon as possible to improve strength and minimize scarring and adhesion.

However, the authors suggest that better outcomes might be achieved by also focusing on how to influence the body’s natural healing process. While there are currently no approved additional biological treatments that can be used in the clinic, a lot of research is being done in this area. The paper reviews recent studies on the use of cytokines (proteins that influence cell behavior), gene and cell-based therapies, and tissue engineering as possible future treatments for tendon injuries.

FAQs

  1. What are the current treatment methods for tendon injuries in the hand?
  2. What new treatment methods are being researched for tendon injuries?
  3. Why is scarring and adhesion a problem in the healing of tendon injuries in the hand?

Doctor’s Tip

In the meantime, it’s important for patients to follow their doctor’s post-operative instructions carefully, attend all physical therapy sessions, and communicate any concerns or changes in symptoms to their healthcare provider. Additionally, maintaining a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet and regular exercise can help support the healing process. Remember to be patient and give your body the time it needs to heal properly.

Suitable For

Typically, patients who have suffered from tendon injuries in the hand are recommended tendon repair surgery. These injuries can be caused by trauma, overuse, or degenerative conditions such as tendonitis. Patients with tendon injuries may experience symptoms such as pain, swelling, limited range of motion, and difficulty performing everyday tasks.

It is important for patients to seek treatment for tendon injuries, as untreated injuries can lead to long-term complications such as decreased hand function and chronic pain. Tendon repair surgery is often recommended for patients with severe tendon injuries that do not respond to conservative treatments such as rest, physical therapy, and medication.

Patients who undergo tendon repair surgery may benefit from a comprehensive rehabilitation program to help restore hand function and prevent complications such as scarring and adhesion. Physical therapy is an important component of post-surgery recovery, as it can help improve strength, flexibility, and range of motion in the hand.

Overall, patients who are recommended tendon repair surgery are typically those with severe tendon injuries that require surgical intervention to restore hand function and prevent long-term complications. It is important for patients to follow their healthcare provider’s recommendations for treatment and rehabilitation to achieve the best possible outcomes.

Timeline

  • Before tendon repair:
  1. Patient experiences a traumatic injury to the tendon in the hand, such as a cut or tear.
  2. Patient may experience pain, swelling, and limited range of motion in the affected hand.
  3. Patient undergoes evaluation by a healthcare provider, likely including imaging tests to assess the extent of the injury.
  4. Patient is scheduled for tendon repair surgery, which may involve different types of sutures and techniques depending on the severity of the injury.
  • After tendon repair:
  1. Patient undergoes surgery to repair the tendon, which may involve sutures, grafts, or other techniques to restore normal function.
  2. Patient begins physical therapy soon after surgery to improve strength and range of motion in the hand.
  3. Patient may experience pain, stiffness, and swelling in the hand during the recovery process.
  4. Over time, with continued physical therapy and rehabilitation, patient gradually regains function in the hand.
  5. Depending on the extent of the injury and the success of the surgery, patient may achieve near-normal function in the hand, though complete restoration may be difficult to achieve.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is the success rate of tendon repair surgery for my specific injury?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with tendon repair surgery?
  3. What is the expected recovery time and rehabilitation process after tendon repair surgery?
  4. Are there any alternative treatments or therapies that could be beneficial for my tendon injury?
  5. How can I minimize scarring and adhesion during the healing process?
  6. Are there any specific exercises or activities I should avoid during my recovery?
  7. What are the long-term implications of a tendon injury and repair on hand function?
  8. Are there any new or experimental treatments for tendon injuries that I should be aware of?
  9. How can I best support the natural healing process of my tendon injury?
  10. What steps can I take to prevent future tendon injuries in my hand?

Reference

Authors: Graham JG, Wang ML, Rivlin M, Beredjiklian PK. Journal: Connect Tissue Res. 2019 Jan;60(1):10-20. doi: 10.1080/03008207.2018.1512979. Epub 2018 Sep 7. PMID: 30126313