If you’ve lost strength, movement, or control in your hand or arm due to nerve damage, Dr. Ketan Sharma may recommend a tendon transfer. This procedure can help restore function in cases of paralysis, muscle weakness, or nerve injury, especially when non-surgical treatments haven’t provided lasting relief.
What is tendon transfer?
Tendon transfer is a surgical procedure used to restore lost movement by rerouting a functioning tendon to take over the role of a damaged or non-functioning one. This approach is commonly used when nerves or muscles can no longer activate specific motions due to injury or disease. During the procedure, the donor tendon is carefully repositioned and reattached to provide the necessary movement, such as grasping or extending the hand. Over time, the brain learns to use the new tendon path to control that motion.
What are the signs and symptoms indicating you may need a tendon transfer?
If you’ve experienced a significant loss of movement or strength in your arm, hand, or leg, especially after a nerve injury, you may be a candidate for tendon transfer. This procedure is often considered when other treatments haven’t restored enough function. Signs that may indicate the need for tendon transfer include:
- Inability to bend or straighten specific joints
- Loss of grip strength or fine motor control
- Persistent muscle weakness despite therapy
- Paralysis in part of the limb following nerve damage
- Difficulty performing basic daily movements
- Noticeable imbalance or abnormal posture in the hand or arm
What does tendon transfer treat?
Tendon transfer is typically used to restore function in the hand, arm, or leg when nerves or muscles have been severely damaged and no longer work properly. This damage may result from trauma, nerve injury, or progressive nerve conditions that limit movement and strength.
When traditional treatments such as therapy or nerve repair cannot fully restore motion, tendon transfer offers a way to regain purposeful control of the affected limb.
What happens during tendon transfer?
Dr. Sharma first evaluates which tendons and muscles are still functioning well. He then identifies a donor tendon—typically one with redundant or less critical function—and makes a small incision to access the donor and non-functioning tendons. The donor tendon is carefully detached from its original insertion point while preserving its connection to the working muscle. Next, it is tunneled under the skin and rerouted to the insertion site of the damaged tendon.
Dr. Sharma then sutures the donor tendon to its new attachment point with precise tensioning to ensure proper movement once healed. The surgical site is closed with fine sutures, and a splint or cast is applied to immobilize the limb and protect the repair. This alignment is crucial for retraining the brain to utilize the tendon’s new function during recovery and physical therapy.
What is recovery like after tendon transfer?
After tendon transfer surgery, you can expect several weeks of immobilization followed by physical therapy to help retrain your brain and muscles to use the tendon in its new role. Mild swelling, soreness, and stiffness are common in the early stages, and you may need to take time off work or limit activities depending on your occupation. Most patients begin to regain functional movement within a few months, though full recovery can take 6-12 months.
To support healing and maximize your outcome, you’ll need to:
- Wear a splint or cast as instructed by Dr. Sharma
- Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activity during early healing
- Begin supervised physical therapy once cleared
- Perform daily stretching and movement exercises
- Attend all follow-up appointments for progress monitoring
- Report any signs of infection or unusual pain immediately
Why choose Dr. Sharma for tendon transfer?
Dr. Ketan Sharma is a board-certified hand and nerve surgeon who specializes in restoring function after nerve injuries and paralysis. With advanced training in microsurgery and a deep understanding of complex tendon and nerve anatomy, he offers precision-driven surgical care tailored to each patient’s specific needs. Dr. Sharma aims to help patients regain mobility and independence, especially in cases where non-surgical options have been unsuccessful.
Here’s why patients trust Dr. Sharma for tendon transfer surgery:
- Customized surgical plans based on your specific deficits and goals
- Meticulous techniques to optimize motion and reduce scarring
- Extensive experience treating complex nerve and tendon injuries
- Guides you through every step of recovery and rehabilitation
Schedule a consultation today to determine if tendon transfer is the right option for you.
