Tendon Repair Surgery – How It’s Performed and What to Expect
Tendons are strong bands of tissue that connect muscles to bones, allowing your body to move smoothly and efficiently. When a tendon is torn or severed due to injury or overuse, it may not heal properly on its own. In these cases, tendon repair surgery can help restore movement and function.
Whether the injury affects a hand, shoulder, ankle, or knee, this surgical procedure plays an important role in helping patients regain strength, flexibility, and quality of life.
When Is Tendon Repair Surgery Needed?
Tendon repair surgery may be recommended when:
● A tendon is completely or partially torn
● Movement or strength is significantly impaired
● Non-surgical treatments like rest, splints, and physical therapy have failed
● The injury involves important functional areas, such as the hand or foot
Common tendon injuries that require surgical repair include:
● Rotator cuff tears
● Achilles tendon ruptures
● Flexor or extensor tendon lacerations in the hand
● Quadriceps or patellar tendon tears in the knee
How Is Tendon Repair Surgery Performed?
Tendon repair surgery is typically performed as an outpatient procedure at an ambulatory surgical center or hospital. Here’s what to expect:
1. Anesthesia:
Depending on the location of the injury, local, regional, or general anesthesia may be used.
2. Incision:
The surgeon makes a small incision over the injured tendon to access the damaged area.
3. Tendon Repair:
Using fine sutures, the surgeon carefully stitches the torn or severed tendon back together. In some cases, grafts from nearby tendons or donor tissue may be used if the damage is extensive.
4. Wound Closure:
Once the tendon is repaired, the incision is closed with stitches or surgical glue, and a splint or cast may be applied to protect the area.
The entire procedure usually takes 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the complexity of the injury.
Recovery and Rehabilitation
Recovery from tendon repair surgery can take several weeks to months. The timeline depends on the tendon involved, the extent of the injury, and how well the body heals. Physical therapy is often a key part of the recovery process and helps restore strength and flexibility.
Patients are typically advised to:
● Keep the area immobilized initially
● Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activity
● Follow all wound care and therapy instructions closely
What Are the Risks of Tendon Repair Surgery?
As with any surgery, tendon repair involves some risk. While most patients recover well, potential complications include:
● Infection
● Stiffness or reduced range of motion
● Re-tear or failure of the tendon to heal
● Nerve damage
● Scar tissue formation
Choosing an experienced, board-certified surgeon and closely following post-operative instructions can significantly reduce these risks.
Final Thoughts
Tendon repair surgery is a safe and effective option for patients with tendon injuries that impact mobility or function. By understanding how the surgery works and what to expect, you can make informed decisions about your care and recovery.
If you’ve experienced a tendon injury and want to learn more about your treatment options, speak with your healthcare provider or orthopedic specialist.