Tendons are bands of tissue that usually connect muscle to bone. When they become inflamed or damaged, that condition is known as tendonitis. Patients with tendonitis may experience pain and tenderness on the thumb side of the wrist, over the base of the finger, or may wake up with a finger stuck in the flex position. There are two types of tendons which can affect movement of the hand and fingers. Extensor tendons run across the back of the hand and allow you to straighten the fingers and thumb. Flexor tendons run through the wrist and across the palm, and allow you to bend your fingers. During a tendon repair surgery, Dr. Sammer may make one or more small incisions in the skin over the damaged tendon area, sew the torn ends of the tendon together, and assess the surrounding tissue to determine whether other injuries have occurred. Types of Tendonitis Surgeries Performed by Dr. Sammer
- Trigger Finger Release: This procedure releases the inflamed and irritated tendon that causes trigger finger, a catching and locking of the finger or thumb joint. Patients experience restoration of smooth finger or thumb movement, and a resolution of the associated pain.
- De Quervain’s Release: Patients with this condition experience painful tendons on the thumb side of the wrist. If non-invasive options fail to alleviate the pain, Dr. Sammer may recommend surgery to open the tunnel and make more room for the affected tendons.