UMEM Educational Pearls

Title: Should we repair Tendon Lacerations

Keywords: Tendon, Laceration, Repair (PubMed Search)

Posted: 9/19/2014 by Michael Bond, MD (Updated: 9/20/2014)
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Tendon Lacerations:

Flexor tendon lacerations have historically not been repaired by emergency providers due to the extensive pulley systems involved and possibility of loss of mobility from scarring.
- However, if both ends of the tendon can be visualized in the ED it is not unreasonable to place 1 or 2 horizontal mattress sutures between the two ends to prevent retraction of the proximal portion which can make a formal repair more difficult.
- These injuries have a very high complication rate so most will defer to a hand surgeon for definitive treatment.
Extensor tendon lacerations can be repaired by emergency providers.
- Most often these repairs are limited to 6-8. See image at http://www.boneandjoint.org.uk/content/focus/extensor-tendon-injury
- One technique is to use a running horizontal mattress suture with non-absorbable nylon sutures.
- The ultimate strength of the repair is dependent on the number and size of the sutures placed.
- Careful placement of the sutures can prevent gap formation between the ends when the tendon is stressed.
- A good discussion on tendon repairs can be found at http://www.boneandjoint.org.uk/content/focus/extensor-tendon-injury

A reasonable approach to all tendon lacerations is to loosly reapproximate the wound and splint the hand in the position of function until the patient can be seen by a hand surgeon in the next 1-3 days. These injuries do not require immediate surgical repair, and with the high rate of complications it is probably best to discuss with your hand surgeon before attempting a repair.

References

Wheeless Textbook of Orthopaedics. http://www.wheelessonline.com/ortho/extensor_tendon_lacerations