Extensor Tendon Injuries

Extensor tendons are thin cordlike structures which arise from muscles, which originate at the lateral aspect of the elbow and insert over the back of the wrist and top of the digits. When the extensor muscle contracts, the extensor tendons pull backwards extending the fingers and wrist. At the level of the fingers and hand, these tendons lie just beneath the skin, and are commonly injured by sharp lacerations or penetrating wounds. A complete laceration or injury to the extensor tendon will result in inability to actively extend the digit or wrist. Treatment involves surgically exposing the area of injury and suture repair of the lacerated tendon.

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