Treatment of Acute Traumatic Tendon Lacerations

Introduction to Guidelines

• The American Academy of Family Physicians recommends against confusing acute traumatic tendon laceration with chronic tendinosis, as guidelines for tendinosis address degenerative overuse conditions, not acute traumatic lacerations requiring surgical repair 1, 2

Diagnostic Imaging

• The American College of Radiology suggests that MRI is the ideal imaging modality for evaluating tendon injuries and surgical planning, with sensitivity of 28-85% for detecting extensor hood injuries, while standard radiographs should be obtained to rule out associated fractures or bony abnormalities 3