What Does Tendon Repair Surgery Treat?

A tendon connects muscle to bone and transfers the pull that produces movement. A sharp injury can cut a tendon, while a sudden force or a weakened tendon can cause it to tear or pull away from bone. The surgeon brings the damaged ends together or reattaches the tendon, using stitches and sometimes an anchor or other fixation. The exact approach depends on the tendon, the gap between the ends, the injury's age, and the condition of nearby tissues.

Examples include a distal biceps tendon rupture at the elbow, a patellar or quadriceps tendon rupture around the knee, and mallet finger, in which the extensor tendon at a finger joint is disrupted. Repair is intended to improve the tendon’s continuity; physiotherapy is then used to regain controlled movement and strength while the repair heals.

Before surgery, keep the injured area protected and follow the clinician’s instructions about splinting, activity, and medicines. After surgery, the repair may need a brace, splint, or restricted movement. Do not test the tendon by lifting, stretching, or returning to sport before the rehabilitation plan allows it. Attend follow-up visits and perform the prescribed exercises; progressing too quickly can place excess load on healing tissue, while prolonged avoidance of movement can leave the joint stiff.

Arrange prompt medical assessment after a deep cut near a joint, a sudden snap followed by loss of movement or strength, or a visible change in the shape of a limb or finger. After repair, contact the surgical team urgently for increasing redness, warmth, drainage, fever, wound opening, rapidly worsening pain, new numbness, or a cool or unusually pale hand or foot. These changes need assessment because they can signal a wound, nerve, blood-flow, or repair problem.

Ask which tendon is damaged, whether it is cut or pulled from its attachment, and what examination or imaging shows the injury. Discuss whether non-surgical treatment is reasonable, what fixation will be used, how long protection is expected, and which movements must be avoided. Ask when physiotherapy begins, what warning signs require a call, and which work, driving, or sport activities should wait.