Hand Tendon Lacerations: Advanced Solutions for Traumatic Injuries
A sudden, sharp injury can change everything in an instant. When it comes to traumatic tendon lacerations of the hand, wrist, and elbow, finding the right specialist can mean the difference between prolonged disability and a full recovery. Dr. Erica Umpierrez, a distinguished hand and upper extremity surgeon at CMC Orthopaedics, offers hope and expert care for patients facing these challenging injuries.
Meet Dr. Erica Umpierrez: A Dedicated Hand Surgery Specialist
With an exceptional medical background, Dr. Umpierrez brings unparalleled expertise to patient care:
- Fellowship trained at the prestigious Indiana Hand to Shoulder Center
- Board Certified in Orthopaedic Surgery
- Board Certified in Surgery of the Hand
- Fluent in Spanish
- Specialized in complex arm conditions including tendon disorders
- Commitment to personalized, evidence-based treatment
Understanding Traumatic Tendon Lacerations
Tendon lacerations are serious injuries that can dramatically impact your daily life. These traumatic injuries occur when a tendon is partially or completely cut, typically resulting from:
- Workplace accidents
- Sharp object injuries
- Sports-related traumas
- Machinery incidents
- Glass-related injuries
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Hand Tendon Laceration Treatments
The human hand contains an intricate network of tendons that enable the remarkable dexterity we rely on daily. When these vital structures are injured, the impact on quality of life can be profound. Dr. Umpierrez understands that each hand injury affects not just physical function but also a patient’s ability to work, engage in hobbies, and perform basic self-care. Drawing on her specialized training and extensive clinical experience, she approaches each case with meticulous attention to detail. Dr. Umpierrez’s philosophy centers on not just repairing the immediate injury but restoring the hand’s complex functionality to help patients return to their normal activities as completely as possible.
Diagnostic Precision
Dr. Umpierrez’s approach begins with a thorough assessment:
- Detailed physical examination
- Advanced imaging techniques
- Comprehensive evaluation of nerve and blood vessel involvement
- Precise determination of muscle and tendon damage
Surgical Intervention Strategies
Primary Repair
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- Immediate intervention for fresh injuries
- Direct suturing of torn tendons
- Minimizes long-term scar tissue development
Advanced Tendon Grafting
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- Innovative solution for complex injuries
- Replacement of damaged tissue with healthy grafts
- Restores optimal hand function and mobility
Specialized Tendon Transfer
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- Redirects functional tendons to replace damaged areas
- Particularly effective for partial tendon losses or certain nerve injuries
- Customized approach based on individual injury patterns

Wrist Tendon Laceration Treatments
The wrist serves as a critical gateway between the hand and forearm, containing essential structures that enable the fine motor movements we often take for granted. Dr. Umpierrez specializes in addressing the complexities of wrist tendon injuries, which require precise surgical technique and extensive anatomical knowledge. Her fellowship training at the prestigious Indiana Hand to Shoulder Center equipped her with advanced skills to navigate these delicate structures. With her expertise, Dr. Umpierrez can restore function to tendons that control finger flexion, extension, and the subtle movements that allow for everyday activities from typing to gripping objects.
Wrist injuries present unique challenges due to:
- Intricate network of interconnected tendons
- Critical proximity to vital nerves and blood vessels
- Significant impact on overall hand mobility
Surgical Approaches
Micro-Surgical Reconstruction
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- Utilizes advanced microscopic techniques to repair neurovascular structures
- Precise repair of delicate structures
Multi-Stage Reconstructive Procedures
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- Tailored for extensive damage
- Focus on comprehensive mobility restoration
- Personalized treatment planning
Personalized Rehabilitation Journey
Rehabilitation following tendon laceration surgery is just as crucial as the surgical procedure itself. Dr. Umpierrez partners closely with her patients throughout the entire recovery process, recognizing that each person’s healing journey is unique. Her comprehensive approach combines surgical expertise with carefully timed rehabilitation protocols to maximize functional outcomes. The recovery timeline varies depending on the specific location and severity of the injury, but Dr. Umpierrez’s experience allows her to guide patients with precision through each stage of their healing process, celebrating small victories along the way to full recovery.
Every surgical intervention is accompanied by a customized rehabilitation plan:
- Progressive occupational therapy protocols with our specialized team of Certified Hand Therapists
- Consistent follow-up assessments with our multidisciplinary team
- Comprehensive pain management strategies
When to Seek Professional Help
Identifying a tendon laceration early can significantly improve your treatment outcomes and recovery timeline. Many patients experience tendon injuries but delay seeking care, thinking the problem might resolve on its own. Unfortunately, untreated tendon lacerations can lead to permanent functional limitations that become increasingly difficult to address over time. Dr. Umpierrez emphasizes that even minor-seeming injuries deserve professional evaluation, as early intervention often leads to the best possible results and can prevent long-term complications.
Immediate consultation is crucial if you experience:
- Sudden loss of movement
- Visible tendon damage
- Persistent pain after injury
- Significant weakness in hand, wrist, or elbow
- Difficulty performing daily tasks
Why Choose Dr. Erica Umpierrez?
- Subspecialty training in hand and upper extremity surgery
- Cutting-edge surgical techniques
- Compassionate, patient-centered approach
- Proven track record of successful outcomes
- Fluent in Spanish
- Welcoming patients of all ages
Research and Expertise
Dr. Umpierrez’s commitment to excellence extends beyond clinical practice:
- Numerous peer-reviewed publications
- Reviewer for the Journal of Hand Surgery
- Presentations at prestigious medical conferences
- Continuous advancement of surgical techniques
Take the First Step Towards Recovery. Call us today at 843-347-8041 to book your appointment.
Premier Orthopedic Hand Surgery available in Myrtle Beach and Conway
Don’t let a tendon laceration limit your potential. Contact CMC Orthopaedics to schedule a comprehensive consultation with Dr. Erica Umpierrez. Our team is dedicated to providing personalized, advanced care tailored to your unique needs.
If you have pain in your fingers, hand, wrist, or arm, Dr. Umpierrez has the experience to help you get the relief you need. She specializes in the treatment of both simple and complex hand and upper extremity conditions as well as general orthopedic trauma. She is also fellowship-trained in modern microsurgical techniques including nerve and vessel reconstruction. Dr. Erica Umpierrez and her team at CMC Orthopaedics are ready to help you get a grip on your pain and back to doing the things you love.

Erica Umpierrez, MD
CMC Orthopaedics
Dr. Umpierrez is a fellowship trained hand and upper extremity surgeon who specializes in all conditions of the arm, including fractures, arthritis, tendon disorders, sports injuries, and nerve compression or damage. She is trained in arthroscopy, minimally invasive surgical approaches, and microvascular surgery. Dr. Umpierrez adopts a personal approach to each patient, taking time to understand them in order to develop a collaborative treatment plan that addresses their individual goals.