Tendon Transfers In Nerve Palsies
Tendon transfer surgery helps restore lost hand movement when nerves are damaged and muscles stop working. It reassigns healthy tendons to replace non-functioning ones, improving daily hand function.
Nerve palsy occurs when nerves are injured due to trauma, fractures, or prolonged compression. This can lead to loss of movement, weakness, or inability to perform simple tasks like gripping or lifting. Tendon transfer is a surgical solution where working muscles are redirected to restore lost function. It helps improve hand coordination, strength, and independence in daily activities. Symptoms of nerve palsy include weakness, muscle wasting, and abnormal hand posture. Early treatment and proper planning are essential for successful recovery and functional restoration.
Tendon Transfers In Nerve Palsies – Types
Radial Nerve Palsy Tendon Transfer (Finger & Wrist Lifting Surgery)
- This affects the upper part of the nerve network controlling the shoulder and elbow.
- The baby may not be able to lift the arm or bend the elbow properly.
- The arm may appear rotated inward with limited movement.
- It is the most common type of brachial plexus injury.
- Mild cases may recover with physiotherapy.
- Severe cases may require surgical repair.
Median Nerve Palsy Tendon Transfer (Thumb Movement Restoration Surgery)
- Performed to restore thumb opposition and fine motor skills.
- Median nerve injury affects grip and precision movements.
- Patients may find it hard to hold small objects.
- Tendons are transferred to improve thumb control.
- Enhances pinch strength and coordination.
- Supports better hand functionality in daily tasks.
Ulnar Nerve Palsy Tendon Transfer (Claw Hand Correction Surgery)
- Used to correct clawing of fingers caused by ulnar nerve damage.
- Leads to imbalance in finger movement and grip weakness.
- Patients may experience difficulty in holding and stabilizing objects.
- Tendon transfer restores finger alignment and balance.
- Improves grip strength and hand coordination.
- Prevents long-term deformity and stiffness.
Combined Nerve Palsy Tendon Transfer (Advanced Hand Function Restoration Surgery)
- Required when multiple nerves are affected.
- Causes severe loss of hand function and coordination.
- Patients may have limited movement and strength in the hand.
- Multiple tendon transfers are performed to restore different functions.
- Helps regain complex hand movements.
- Improves overall quality of life and independence.
Why Early Consultation Matters
Early treatment prevents permanent stiffness, deformity, and muscle loss. Timely surgery improves the success of tendon transfers and functional recovery. Specialized care ensures proper planning and rehabilitation. Delays can reduce outcomes and make recovery more complex.