Hand Tendon Repair in Cleveland, OH
Tendons are the strong, cord-like tissues that connect your muscles to your bones, allowing you to bend your fingers, flex your wrist, and grip objects. Because the tendons in the hand are located just beneath the skin, they are highly susceptible to injury from deep cuts, glass lacerations, or sudden trauma (such as “jersey finger” or “mallet finger”). A torn or severed tendon cannot heal on its own; without surgical intervention, the affected finger or joint will lose its ability to move.
Dr. Rodney Green is a specialist in hand and tendon surgery. He understands that successful tendon repair is a delicate balance of surgical precision and proactive rehabilitation. Using advanced suturing techniques, Dr. Green works to restore the “gliding” mechanism of your tendons, helping you regain the full use of your hand.
Signs of a Tendon Injury
If you have sustained a cut or trauma to your hand or wrist, you may have a tendon injury if you experience:
- Inability to Move: You cannot bend or straighten a specific finger or the tip of your thumb.
- Pain During Movement: Sharp pain when attempting to flex or extend your hand.
- Numbness: Tendon injuries often occur alongside nerve damage; tingling in the fingertips is a sign of a complex injury.
- A “Gap” or Snap: Feeling a sudden pop during an injury followed by a loss of function.
Note
Tendon repairs are most successful when performed shortly after the injury (ideally within 7–10 days). Delaying surgery can cause the tendon to retract, making the repair more complex.
The Procedure: Precision Suturing & Gliding
Tendon repair is a meticulous procedure performed at our State Licensed Surgery Center.
- Accessing the Injury: Dr. Green carefully cleans the wound and locates the ends of the torn tendon. In many cases, the tendon may have snapped back like a rubber band, requiring a small extension of the incision to retrieve it.
- High-Strength Suturing: Using specialized, high-tensile strength sutures and specific “core stitch” patterns, Dr. Green rejoins the tendon ends. The goal is a repair strong enough to allow for early movement but smooth enough to glide through the narrow tendon sheaths.
- Complex Repairs: If a tendon has been missing or damaged for a long time, Dr. Green may perform a Tendon Graft, using a tendon from another part of the body to restore function.
Recovery: The "Early Motion" Philosophy
The biggest challenge in tendon surgery is preventing scar tissue from “gluing” the tendon to the surrounding structures (adhesions).
- Controlled Movement: Unlike many surgeries that require total immobilization, Dr. Green often utilizes an early protected motion protocol. This involves a specialized splint that allows the tendon to glide slightly while protecting the repair from tearing.
- Hand Therapy: Working with a specialized hand therapist is mandatory. They will guide you through “passive” and “active” exercises to ensure the tendon remains mobile as it knits back together.
- The Timeline: Tendons heal slowly. While you will begin moving within days, it takes about 10 to 12 weeks for the tendon to regain enough strength for heavy lifting or unrestricted use.
Important Note on Your Recovery & Results
Every individual’s body is unique, and as such, recovery timelines and final aesthetic results will vary from patient to patient. Factors such as your natural anatomy, skin elasticity, and how closely you follow post-operative instructions will influence your healing journey.
While Dr. Green and our team are here to support you every step of the way, your safety is a partnership. It is vital that you contact our office immediately at 440-449-8880 if you notice any unusual symptoms, such as excessive pain, unexpected swelling, redness, or fever. Early communication ensures we can provide the necessary guidance to keep your recovery on track.
Tendon Repair FAQs
Will I regain 100% of my movement?
Most patients regain excellent function. The final result depends on the location of the injury (certain “zones” of the hand are more difficult than others), the cleanliness of the original wound, and your dedication to hand therapy.
Is the surgery performed under general anesthesia?
Yes, or a regional block. Because the hand is a complex network of nerves and vessels, being still and comfortable is essential for the surgeon’s precision.
What happens if I don't have the surgery?
A severed tendon will not re-attach itself. Without surgery, the loss of function in that finger or joint will be permanent, and the muscle attached to the tendon will eventually weaken and shorten (atrophy).
Can old tendon injuries be fixed?
Yes, though they often require a two-stage procedure or a tendon graft if the original tendon has retracted too far.
Consultation Checklist: Questions to Ask Dr. Green
- Which “zone” is my tendon injury in, and how does that affect my recovery?
- Are there any associated nerve or vessel injuries that need to be repaired?
- How soon after surgery will I begin working with a hand therapist?
- How long will I need to wear a protective splint at work or school?
Achieve Your Dream Body With Our Experienced Surgical Team
We understand that your body is unique, and your goals for surgery are too. That’s why we offer a variety of surgical procedures to help you achieve your desired results.
Dr. Rodney Green is dedicated to providing you with the highest quality care and support. We will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan that meets your individual needs and expectations.
Call us at 440-449-8880 or email us at drgreen@dr-rodgreen.com to take the first step toward the body of your dreams. to take the first step toward the body of your dreams.