Tendon Transfer Surgery

Tendon transfer surgery is a special type of orthopedic surgery designed to help people regain movement in a limb by replacing a healthy tendon to take the place of one that is damaged or not working properly. This surgery is often done to help improve mobility and strength in individuals who have had nerve injuries, muscle weakness or tendon tears. Essentially, it helps restore function and allows people to move more freely again.

What is Tendon Transfer Surgery?

Tendon transfer surgery is a procedure where a healthy tendon, which is a strong tissue that connects muscles to bones, is moved from its original place to a new position. This new position allows it to help a tendon that is not working properly. This type of surgery is often used to improve movement in areas like the hands, wrists, feet or shoulders, helping people regain their ability to perform daily activities.

Indications of Tendon Transfer Surgery

Doctors might suggest tendon transfer surgery in several situations:

• Nerve Injuries: This is when nerves are badly damaged, leading to weakness or inability to move certain muscles.
• Tendon Ruptures: This occurs when a tendon is completely torn and can not be fixed.
• Muscular Dystrophy: This group of conditions makes muscles weaker and surgery can help support the tendons.
• Birth Defects: Some people are born with conditions that affect how their tendons work and surgery can help improve functions.

Who is Eligible for Tendon Transfer Surgery?

Tendon transfer surgery can help individuals who face challenges such as:

• Losing the ability to use their muscles because of nerve damage or injury.
• Ongoing weaknesses in their tendons or muscles that make it hard to move.
• Birth conditions that affect how their limbs move.
• Serious tendon injuries that can not be fixed in other ways.

Purpose of Tendon Transfer Surgery

The main purposes of tendon transfer surgery include:

• Helping you to regain movement and function in the affected areas.
• Improving grip, stability and overall strength.
• Making life better by allowing for easier and more effective movement.
• Preventing physical issues that can arise from imbalances in muscles or tendons.

Preparing for a Tendon Transfer Surgery

Before the procedure, patients undergo:

• Medical Evaluation: Doctors will look at your overall health and how serious the problem is with your tendon.
• Imaging Tests: You might need some pictures taken of your body like X-rays or MRIs to see the condition of your tendons and muscles.
• Pre-Surgical Guidelines: You may have to stop taking some medications and follow certain eating guidelines before the surgery.

Procedures of Tendon Transfer Surgery

The procedure involves several key steps:

• Anesthesia: You will receive medication to either numb just a part of your body or to make you fully asleep during the procedure.
• Finding the Tendon: The surgeon will choose a tendon that can be moved to replace the damaged one. 
• Detaching the Tendon: The surgeon carefully removes the selected tendon from where it is originally attached.
• Reattaching the Tendon: The tendon is then repositioned and stitched into place so it can take over the job of the damaged tendon.
• Closing Up and Keeping Still: After the surgery, the incision is closed and your limb will be kept still with a splint or cast to help with healing.

Risks Associated with Tendon Transfer Surgery

While most people have successful outcomes but there are some potential risks to be aware of:

• Infection: There’s a chance of getting an infection where the surgery was performed.
• Nerve Damage: Sometimes, nerves can be injured during the surgery, which may lead to feelings of weakness or numbness in the area.
• Stiffness: It’s possible to experience stiffness or a limited range of movement after the surgery.
• Tendon Function: In some cases, the tendon that has been moved may not work as expected.

Recovery from the Surgery

Recovery from tendon transfer surgery can vary, but here is a general outline of the process:

• First Few Weeks: You’ll often need to wear a cast or splint to keep the area protected while it heals.
• Physical Therapy: After some time, you will begin gentle exercises with the help of a therapist to start rebuilding your strength and movement.
• Healing Period: Depending on how complex the surgery was, it could take anywhere from 3 to 6 months to fully recover.

It is always best to discuss these points with your doctor to have a clear understanding of the surgery and recovery process tailored to your situation.

Alternatives to Tendon Transfer Surgery

If you are not the best candidate for tendon transfer surgery then there are other alternative treatment options to consider:

• Physical Therapy: This involves exercises designed to strengthen the muscles around the damaged tendon and improve movement.
• Bracing or Splinting: These are devices you can wear to help support your movements and protect the affected area.
• Nerve Grafts or Repairs: This surgical option aims to fix damaged nerves in order to help restore normal function.

Conclusion

Tendon transfer surgery can be a great option for helping people regain movement when they have issues with tendons or nerves. If you are facing mobility challenges because of a tendon problem, it is a good idea to talk to an orthopedic specialist at Ortho-link. They can help you understand if this surgery is suitable for you.