What is Ligament Repair?

Ligament repair is a surgical procedure used to restore the integrity and stability of a torn or stretched ligament—the fibrous connective tissue that holds bones together at a joint. In the hand, wrist, and fingers, ligaments are essential for coordinated motion, grip strength, and joint stability.

At Katranji Hand Center, ligament repair is performed with meticulous technique to restore joint stability, prevent long-term arthritis, and return patients to their normal activities.

Causes

Ligament repair may be required after:

• Traumatic injuries – falls, sports accidents, or direct blows

• Hyperextension or twisting of joints (e.g., jammed finger, FOOSH injuries)

• Joint dislocations – commonly seen in the thumb (UCL), fingers, and wrist

• Overuse injuries – repetitive stress from work or sports

• Chronic joint instability – from untreated or improperly healed sprains

Signs & Symptoms

Ligament damage requiring repair may present with:

• Joint instability or "giving out"

• Pain and swelling at the site of injury

• Bruising or tenderness

• Weak grip or difficulty using the hand

• Limited range of motion

• Deformity or persistent laxity (looseness)

Diagnosis

At Katranji Hand Center, ligament injuries are assessed using:

• Detailed physical exam – joint stress tests to assess instability

• X-rays – to rule out fractures or avulsion injuries

• MRI or ultrasound – to visualize soft tissue tears, partial or complete

• Functional testing – to evaluate grip strength and joint mechanics

Treatment Options

Non-Surgical

• Immobilization with splints or braces

• Rest, ice, compression, elevation (RICE)

• Anti-inflammatory medications

• Physical therapy – to regain motion and strength

Non-surgical care is appropriate for mild to moderate sprains or partial tears.

Surgical Ligament Repair

• Indicated for complete ligament tears, failed conservative treatment, or persistent instability

• Performed under regional or general anesthesia

• The torn ligament is sutured directly or reattached to bone using suture anchors, bone tunnels, or tendon grafts

• May be combined with joint realignment or capsular tightening

Common repairs include:

• Thumb UCL repair (Gamekeeper’s/Skier’s thumb)

• Scapholunate ligament repair (wrist instability)

• Collateral ligament repair (finger joints)

Postoperative Care

• Immobilization in a protective splint or cast for 4 to 6 weeks

• Elevation and pain control

• Hand therapy begins once healing allows

• Gradual return to motion, strength, and activity

• Full recovery can take 8 to 12 weeks, with continued gains up to 6 months

Associated Risks

• Scar formation or stiffness

• Re-injury or incomplete healing

• Persistent instability

• Nerve irritation

• Post-traumatic arthritis (in chronic or severe cases)

Prognosis

When addressed promptly and followed by a structured rehab plan, ligament repair has an excellent prognosis. Patients often regain full strength, stability, and range of motion. At Katranji Hand Center, our surgeons combine expertise with personalized care plans to help each patient get back to doing what they love—without limitations.