Tendon Transfer

Tendon transfer surgery is a procedure that can restore movement in areas affected by nerve injuries, ruptured or lacerated tendons or muscles, and certain birth defects.

A doctor showing a woman the nervous system of her hand by using a false hand as an example

Tendon Relocation Boost

By relocating a functional tendon from its original point to a new one, this treatment can majorly improve extremity function and help patients regain control over the affected area, providing them with increased flexibility and grip.

What is Tendon Transfer Surgery?

Tendon transfer surgery is a complex medical procedure that allows those who have lost muscle function due to nerve injuries, ruptured or lacerated tendons or muscles, nervous system disorders, or birth defects to potentially regain movement in the affected area. In the procedure, a functional tendon is moved from its original location and attached to a new point to restore use. As a result, patients may experience an improved ability to straighten and bend the elbow and wrist, as well as improved gripping ability with their fingers and hand.

Why is Tendon Transfer Surgery Done?

Tendon transfer surgery is typically used when a muscle has become injured or paralyzed, hindering its normal function. In such cases, the procedure can be used to attempt to restore motor skills and functionality in the afflicted area. It may also be used to treat nerve injuries, rheumatoid arthritis, fractures, cerebral palsy, spinal muscle atrophy, traumatic brain injury, and hypoplastic thumbs. According to medical studies on the topic, major improvement in extremity function is a possible result of successful tendon transfer surgery.

Benefits of Tendon Transfer Surgery

Babies born without specific muscle functions can benefit from tendon transfer surgeries.
Patients with nerve injury may benefit from the ability to use muscles disabled by the damaged nerves.
Muscles that have been lacerated or ruptured (and which are beyond repair) can benefit from the procedure.
Tendons damaged beyond repair can be replaced with a transfer.
Patients with nervous system disorders may lose muscle function, and yet tendon transfers may help them to regain some use of certain hand functions. This includes patients with traumatic brain injuries and stroke.

How is Tendon Transfer Performed?

When performing tendon transfer surgery, surgeons alter the point of contact between the tendon and its original bone of residence. The muscles attached to it remain untouched; instead, it is only their endpoint that is changed.

New connection points are chosen depending on the actions wishes to achieve. This means that stroke patients may benefit from improved movement despite paralysis caused by damage inflicted upon their nerve endings or muscle tissues.

Are there any Alternatives to Tendon Transfer?

Other treatment options for hand injuries include:

Repairing the damaged nerve
Repairing the torn tendon or muscle
Utilizing tendon grafts to bridge a gap in an injured tendon
Lengthening tendons to regain dexterity and range of motion
Fusing bones to increase strength and stability

Am I a Good Candidate for Tendon Transfer?

This type of surgery is often utilized to restore functionality and movement to the hand, but there are certain factors that can make it an effective treatment. Our surgeon will evaluate your current condition and discuss with you whether this procedure would be beneficial. Be sure to ask any questions you may have about the process and possible risks associated with it.

Why Choose Atlas Institute Peripheral Nerve Care for Tendon Transfer?

At Atlas Institute Peripheral Nerve Care, we are proud to offer the latest in state-of-the-art diagnostic and therapeutic technology. Our nerve center is equipped with the most advanced equipment that can correctly diagnose nerve pain or dysfunction and deliver precise solutions, whether surgical or non-surgical. At Atlas Institute Peripheral Nerve Care, our team of dedicated specialists is down-to-earth and focused purely on the technical aspects of surgery. We strive for results that look and function beautifully, utilizing thoughtful and meticulously performed procedures for optimal outcomes. In addition, many other providers may not understand the true significance of nerve pain or dysfunction due to a lack of testing capabilities. By implementing a directed treatment plan, patients can experience relief from their symptoms--including numbness, pain, or loss of function--or complete healing from their condition.