Restoring Hand Function
Paralysis (quadriplegia or tetraplegia) may result from upper spine damage. Tendon transfer can increase arm and leg function for some patients.
What is a tendon transfer?
After spinal cord surgery, hand function can be restored through a tendon transfer procedure.
In this surgical procedure, a weakened muscle is connected to a tendon section, which allows paralysed muscles to be compensated for by working muscles. This surgery is generally autologous, meaning the tendons are provided by your own body, which minimises rejection and infection risks.
A tendon transfer is advised for patients who retain some muscle control, as the procedure requires a few functioning muscles.
What can be achieved with a tendon transfer?
- Ability to bend and straighten the elbow
- Ability to bend and straighten the wrist
- Increased ability to perform pinching and gripping movements
Elbow tendon transfer (elbow extension)
A fraction of the shoulder's deltoid muscle is removed and grafted to the elbow in elbow tendon transfer procedures.
This allows patients to bend and straighten their elbow, as the triceps muscle function is mimicked. Increased elbow functionality is beneficial as it can help patients reach for items, use a wheelchair, and - in some cases - drive.
Wrist and hand tendon transfer (for key pinch)
In hand and wrist tendon transfer procedures, functional forearm muscles are attached to finger and hand tendons.
This procedure increases a patient's pinching and grasping abilities, which reduces difficulties experienced when eating, writing, brushing teeth and using a mobile phone.
Electronic implants
When tendon transfers are not possible, electronic implants are a new alternative.
Electronic implants are comparable to pacemakers as they use electrical signals to stimulate muscles. This treatment can activate pinching or gripping movements.
What can we expect from tendon transfer surgery?
This surgical procedure usually takes around 6 hours. There are specific risks involved as this procedure is relatively invasive.
Before your surgery, Dr Oscar Brumby-Rendell will explain these risks to you.
Usually, tendon transfer surgery brings excellent results that increase a patient's quality of life by restoring arm and hand function.
Once you have a referral…
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