Acute tendon injuries in the hand and their management

Acute tendon injuries to the hand are common. In the UK, there are approximately 12000 inpatient admissions annually for injuries to the tendons and muscles of the hand and wrist (Dew, 2009). Hand injuries involving the dominant hand can cause long-term disability if not appropriately managed. Diagnosis of tendon injuries in the hand relies on careful clinical assessment, particularly if flexor and extensor tendon injuries are not to be missed. This article describes the tendon structure, explains the causes of tendon injury and discusses their assessment and management for a foundation level doctor who will face these injuries regularly whether in primary care or the emergency department.