Flexor tendon section is a surgical emergency requiring rapid repair (ideally within 24-48 hours) to optimize chances of functional recovery.
In case of wound with inability to bend a finger: call 112 immediately or contact us at +352 2468 4141
Flexor tendons are structures that allow fingers to bend. Each finger has two flexor tendons: the superficial flexor and the deep flexor. They run on the palmar side of the fingers in a pulley system that holds them against the skeleton.
Flexor tendon section is most often caused by a hand or finger wound (knife, glass, saw...). After section, the patient can no longer bend the affected finger, or bends it only partially.
It is a surgical emergency: repair should ideally be performed within 24 to 48 hours to optimize chances of functional recovery.
Surgeons classify injuries into 5 zones, numbered from fingertip to forearm. Prognosis and repair difficulty vary according to the affected zone.
Zone 2 (at phalanx level) is the most difficult to treat due to its poor vascularization and limited space. This is where the risk of adhesions limiting mobility is highest.
The intervention consists of suturing the two ends of the sectioned tendon. It is meticulous surgery, most often performed under regional anesthesia, on an outpatient basis.
The repair must respect several fundamental principles to allow solid healing while preserving tendon gliding in its pulleys.
Rehabilitation is absolutely essential for treatment success. It begins immediately after surgery, with early mobilization protocols aimed at making the repaired tendon glide to avoid adhesion formation, while protecting the suture.
A protective splint is worn during the first weeks. Mobilization is first passive (physiotherapist mobilizes the finger), then progressively active. Treatment success relies equally on surgery quality and rehabilitation rigor: your involvement is essential.
No, of course not. Although it is a mastered procedure, complications can occur, even if usual precautions are taken:
Main complication, they limit finger mobility by preventing tendon gliding. They may require surgical revision (tenolysis) if rehabilitation is not sufficient.
Possible if protection instructions are not followed.
Consequence of adhesions or immobilization.
Infection, healing difficulties, algodystrophy.
Prognosis depends on several factors: injury zone, wound type (clean or contused), care delay, age and patient involvement in rehabilitation.
With optimal care and rigorous rehabilitation, most patients recover good finger function. However, some residual stiffness is possible, particularly in zone 2 injuries.
Rapid care is essential. Contact us immediately.
Emergency: 112 | Institute: +352 2468 4141
Phone availability: 8:30am-10:30am and 1:30pm-3:30pm