What is Tendon Repair?
Tendon Repair is a surgical procedure aimed at restoring the function and integrity of a damaged tendon in the hand or upper extremity. Tendons are fibrous tissues that connect muscles to bones and enable movement. Tendon injuries, such as tears or ruptures, can occur due to trauma, overuse, or degenerative conditions. Tendon repair surgery involves reattaching or suturing the torn ends of the tendon to promote healing and regain strength and mobility.
Why Might You Need Tendon Repair?
Tendon Repair may be recommended if you experience:
- Tendon Injury: Trauma or injury resulting in a partial or complete tear of a tendon.
- Loss of Function: Inability to move a joint or perform activities due to tendon damage.
- Weakness: Weakness or instability in the affected area, indicating tendon dysfunction.
- Diagnostic Confirmation: Need for surgical intervention to repair a confirmed tendon tear or rupture.
What Are the Steps in a Tendon Repair Procedure?
Preoperative Preparation
- Medical Evaluation: Comprehensive review of your medical history, symptoms, and previous treatments.
- Diagnostic Imaging: MRI or ultrasound to assess the extent and location of the tendon injury.
- Informed Consent: Detailed discussion of the procedure, potential benefits, and risks.
During the Procedure
- Patient Positioning: You will be comfortably positioned to allow easy access to the affected area.
- Anesthesia: Local or regional anesthesia is administered to numb the area or a general anesthetic may be used.
- Incision: A surgical incision is made over the damaged tendon to access and repair it.
- Tendon Repair: The torn ends of the tendon are reattached or sutured together using specialized techniques.
- Closure: The incision is closed with sutures, and a sterile dressing is applied.
Postoperative Care
- Observation: Brief period of monitoring after the procedure to ensure there are no immediate complications.
- Immobilization: Splinting or casting may be required to protect the repaired tendon during initial healing.
- Physical Therapy: Rehabilitation exercises and hand therapy are essential to restore strength, flexibility, and function.
- Activity Guidelines: Instructions on caring for the incision and guidelines for gradually resuming normal activities.
Recovery and Rehabilitation
Postoperative Care
- Pain Management: Medications and techniques for managing postoperative pain and swelling.
- Follow-Up Appointments: Scheduled to monitor healing, assess tendon function, and adjust rehabilitation as needed.
Potential Complications
While Tendon Repair is generally safe, potential complications can include:
- Infection: Risk of infection at the surgical site.
- Delayed Healing: Delayed or incomplete healing of the tendon, requiring additional interventions.
- Stiffness or Adhesions: Formation of scar tissue around the tendon, leading to stiffness or restricted movement.
Benefits of Tendon Repair in
Hand & Upper Extremity Management
- Restoration of Function: Regain the ability to move the affected joint and perform daily activities.
- Prevention of Further Damage: Addressing tendon injuries early can prevent further degeneration or complications.
- Improved Strength: Restoration of tendon integrity leads to improved strength and stability.
- Enhanced Quality of Life: Improved overall well-being and ability to engage in work and leisure activities.
