zaro

Is It Bad to Cut a Tendon?

Published in Tendon Injury 5 mins read

Yes, cutting a tendon is a serious injury that can lead to significant loss of function, pain, and often requires immediate medical attention, including surgery. Tendons are vital connective tissues, and any damage to them, especially a cut, can severely impair movement and strength.

Understanding Tendons and Their Importance

Tendons are strong, fibrous cords of connective tissue that attach muscles to bones. They are essential for movement, allowing you to bend, straighten, lift, and perform countless other actions. When a muscle contracts, it pulls on its attached tendon, which in turn moves the bone. Without intact tendons, the muscles cannot effectively transmit force to the skeleton, leading to a loss of mobility and strength.

Why a Cut Tendon Is a Serious Injury

A cut tendon is more than just a surface wound; it disrupts the intricate connection between muscle and bone, leading to several critical issues:

  • Immediate Loss of Function: Depending on the tendon cut, you may instantly lose the ability to move the affected finger, hand, foot, or limb. For example, a cut to a finger flexor tendon means you might not be able to bend that finger.
  • Significant Pain and Swelling: The injury is typically very painful and can be accompanied by bleeding and swelling around the affected area.
  • Potential for Permanent Disability: Without proper and timely treatment, a cut tendon can result in permanent stiffness, weakness, or complete loss of function in the affected body part.

Medical Intervention is Crucial

The severity of the cut dictates the necessary medical response:

  • Complete Tendon Severance: If a tendon is completely cut through, it will require surgery to repair it. This procedure aims to reattach the two ends of the tendon, allowing them to heal. The surgery is usually recommended within 7 to 10 days of the injury to achieve the best possible outcome. Before surgery, a doctor may close the external wound with stitches, apply a bandage, and place your hand or finger in a splint to protect the area.
  • Partial Tendon Injury: If the tendon is only partially cut or torn, your doctor may determine that it can heal without surgery. This non-surgical approach typically involves immobilization (e.g., with a splint or cast), rest, and a carefully monitored rehabilitation program. However, medical assessment is always necessary to determine the extent of the damage.

The Recovery and Rehabilitation Process

Healing from a cut tendon, especially after surgery, is a long and dedicated process:

  • Immobilization: After repair, the affected area is often immobilized with a splint or cast for several weeks to protect the healing tendon.
  • Physical or Occupational Therapy: This is a critical component of recovery. Therapists guide you through specific exercises to gradually regain range of motion, strength, and function. This helps prevent stiffness and scar tissue formation that could limit movement.
  • Gradual Return to Activity: It can take several months for a tendon to fully heal and regain its strength. Returning to normal activities, especially strenuous ones, must be done gradually and under medical guidance.

Potential Complications

Even with appropriate treatment, there can be complications:

  • Infection: As with any open wound or surgical procedure, there is a risk of infection.
  • Stiffness: Scar tissue can form, leading to stiffness and reduced range of motion, even after therapy.
  • Re-rupture: The repaired tendon can re-rupture, especially if not adequately protected during the healing process.
  • Nerve Damage: Depending on the location, a cut that severs a tendon may also damage nearby nerves or blood vessels.

What to Do If a Tendon is Cut

If you suspect a tendon has been cut, it's crucial to seek immediate medical attention.

  1. Control Bleeding: Apply direct pressure to the wound with a clean cloth.
  2. Elevate: If possible, elevate the injured area above heart level to help reduce swelling and bleeding.
  3. Protect the Wound: Cover the wound with a clean bandage.
  4. Seek Emergency Care: Go to the nearest emergency room or urgent care clinic right away. Prompt evaluation and treatment are essential for the best chance of a full recovery.

Summary of Tendon Injury Types and Treatment Approaches:

Injury Type Description Typical Treatment Approach
Complete Tendon Cut/Severance Tendon is fully separated into two distinct pieces. Surgery (often within 7-10 days of injury) to reattach the ends, followed by immobilization and extensive physical therapy to restore function.
Partial Tendon Cut/Tear Tendon is damaged or torn but not completely separated. May heal non-surgically with rest, immobilization (splint/cast), pain management, and physical therapy. Surgery may be considered if conservative treatment fails or the tear is significant.
Tendinitis (Inflammation) Inflammation of a tendon, often due to overuse or repetitive strain. Conservative treatment: Rest, ice, anti-inflammatory medication (NSAIDs), physical therapy, bracing, and activity modification.
Tendinosis (Degeneration) Chronic degeneration of collagen in the tendon, without significant inflammation. Similar to tendinitis, but often requires longer-term management focused on strengthening and addressing underlying causes, sometimes including injections or specialized therapies.

Cutting a tendon is a serious medical emergency that requires swift professional intervention. The sooner you receive appropriate care, the better the chances of a successful recovery and restoration of function.