[Primary treatment of tendon injuries of the hand]

Tendon injuries of the hand are common and their treatment is surgically challenging. Precise knowledge of the anatomy of the extensor and flexor tendons in the hand is necessary to be able to perform a detailed clinical examination and to estimate adequately the extent of injury. Depending on the injury pattern, various conservative and surgical treatment options must be considered. Concerning the overall concept of the supply of tendon injuries of the hand, follow-up treatment is crucial to achieve an optimal functional outcome. It should be noted, however, that the results are influenced by the following: extent of the injury, mechanism, exact anatomical location, associated injuries, and finally the participation of the patient in the follow-up treatment.