Chris Young Expected to Make a Full Recovery

On Thursday night, Chris Young hosted his annual fan club party with a crowd of over 500 fans on the General Jackson showboat. After the party, he went home and started preparing himself a late-night dinner. And that was when a great night turned bad ... Chris sliced his left hand open with a kitchen knife. After an ER visit, he cancelled his four-hour autograph session on Friday at the CMA Music Festival but was hopeful that he would be well enough to perform on Saturday. After a follow-up doctor visit yesterday, those hopes were dashed. The cut was more damaging than it was originally thought to be and tendons in the hand would have to be surgically repaired in order to heal properly. He underwent the surgery yesterday and was released from the hospital this morning. His performance at tonight's festival was cancelled and, so far, no replacement has been announced.

The good news is that Young is expected to be able to return to guitar playing (and full function) after physical therapy and rehab on the hand. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, it can take up to 2 months before surgical repair of tendons in the hand (known as Flexor tendons) heals and the injured hand is strong enough to use without protection. It may take another month or so before the hand can be used with any force. Physical therapy with very specific exercises help patients gradually regain motion and function. While stiffness after surgery is common, it usually responds well to therapy. Overall, flexor tendon surgery results in good return of function and high patient satisfaction.

The 300 confirmed ticket holders for Friday's autograph session were able to visit Young's booth inside the Fan Fair X exhibit area where they received a free signed photo. Once Chris is healed, he plans to sign personalized photos to send to the registered fans who provided their names and mailing addresses.