What is Tendon Transfer Surgery?
Tendon transfer surgery is a type
of surgical procedure performed to restore or improve function in a part of the
body where a tendon has been damaged, weakened, or lost due to injury, disease,
or congenital abnormalities. Tendon Transfer Surgery ensures proper alignment of the muscles, reduces walking
problems and increases flexibility. Tendon transfer for the arm and hand areas
can improve the ability to grasp small items.
Video : Tendon Transfer Example in The Shoulder - Explained by Mayo Clinic
Conditions
for a Tendon Transfer Surgery
The use of tendon transfer surgery is dependent upon three
factors:
• The muscle that the transferred tendon is linked to needs to be
able to move.
• The tendon will be placed to tissue that is as healthy and
normal as possible. Tendon transfer could be challenging if the tissue has
significant skin injury or wounds.
• The joints used for tendon
transfer need to be movable.
– Hand Figure 1: Tendon Transfer
Figure 1: Tendon Transfer Example – Hand
How is Tendon Transfer Surgery Performed?
Tendon Transfer Surgery is performed as a result of
the loss of function of the muscles and tendons in the joint areas. Tendon
transfer surgery is usually performed under general anaesthesia. The tendon
attached to the muscle is removed and positioned to the damaged area and
sutured.
Tendon transfer surgery can be performed in the
following cases:
The muscle to which the tendon to be transferred is attached
must be functional.
• Tendon ruptures caused on by rheumatic diseases
• Traumatic injuries,
etc.
• Neuromuscular
disorders, including stroke, cerebral palsy etc.
• Birth defect that
interferes with muscular function. The tissue to which the tendon will be
transferred should be as normal and healthy as possible. If the tissue has
large wound areas or skin damage, tendon transfer may be difficult.
Recovery After Tendon Transfer Surgery