How long does a sagittal band injury take to heal?

Sagittal bands are small structures that maintain the alignment of the extensor tendons located on the back of the hand at the knuckles. How long will my hand take to recover? It takes about 8-10 weeks for the sagittal band to recover full strength.

Can sagittal band heal itself?

If the sagittal band is not fully torn, then it may be possible for the condition to be treated at home with conservative methods, particularly splinting, anti-inflammatory medications, icing, rest, and possible pain relief.

How do you treat a sagittal band injury?

Most sagittal band injuries are treated by maintaining the MCP joints in extension and by limiting MCP flexion to a safe arc of motion.

What is a sagittal band injury?

The radial sagittal band prevents ulnar subluxation of the extensor tendon at the metacarpophalangeal joint. Injury may result from a direct blow to the hand or from relatively low-energy mechanisms. Symptoms range from metacarpophalangeal joint pain and edema to dislocation of the extensor tendon.

Is a sagittal band rupture painful?

With this injury, a radial-sided rupture of the sagittal band typically occurs. Rupture results in pain, swelling, and ulnar subluxation of the extensor tendon with MCP flexion.

How do you test for a sagittal band rupture?

A classic test to reveal a sagittal band rupture is to passively place the digits into extension and actively hold them in place. If able to maintain full extension when passively placed, a long extensor injury or rupture is unlikely.

What is the sagittal band in the finger?

The sagittal band is part of the extensor mechanism in the finger. It allows extension (straightening) at the knuckle of the finger (metacarpal phalangeal joint, MP joint) of the finger. The bend, or flexion, is located at the knuckle of the finger (see photo).

What is sagittal band reconstruction?

The technique of sagittal band reconstruction described involves harvesting a distally based ulnar-sided strip of the extensor digitorum communis tendon, passing it transversely through the radial component of the tendon, and then looping it deep to the deep transverse metacarpal ligament.