Tendon Ruptures

Tendon ruptures are complete tears of a tendon, resulting in sudden loss of the movement that tendon controls. In the upper extremity, tendon ruptures can occur in the fingers, hand, wrist, and elbow, and often require prompt surgical repair to restore function.

Common Tendon Ruptures

Distal biceps tendon ruptures occur at the elbow when the biceps tendon detaches from the radial tuberosity, typically from a sudden eccentric load. They cause a characteristic bulge in the upper arm and significant loss of supination strength.

Extensor pollicis longus (EPL) ruptures cause inability to extend the thumb and can occur after distal radius fractures or with rheumatoid arthritis. Jersey finger (flexor digitorum profundus avulsion) occurs when a finger is forcibly extended while actively flexed.

Treatment

Most complete tendon ruptures require surgical repair, ideally within days to weeks of injury before the tendon retracts and becomes difficult to retrieve. Distal biceps ruptures are repaired through a small anterior elbow incision, reattaching the tendon to the radial tuberosity.

Flexor and extensor tendon ruptures in the hand are repaired with specialized suture techniques. Chronic ruptures may require tendon grafting. Post-surgical hand therapy with a structured protocol is essential for optimal outcomes.

Common Symptoms

Sudden pop at the time of injury
Immediate pain and swelling
Inability to perform specific movements
Visible bulge in the upper arm (biceps rupture)
Visible gap in the tendon
Weakness with gripping, lifting, or rotation

Treatment Options

Surgical tendon repair (primary)
Distal biceps reattachment with suture anchors or cortical button
Tendon grafting for chronic ruptures
Jersey finger surgical repair
Structured post-surgical hand therapy
Gradual return-to-sport protocol

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Dr. Kinchelow specializes in treating tendon ruptures. Schedule a consultation today.

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