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Tendon Transfers for Tetraplegia
1Division of Hand Surgery, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation, Stritch School of Medicine, Loyola University, 1700 Maguire Building, 2160 South First Avenue, Maywood, IL 60153, USA.
Hand Clinics
|July 9, 2016
Summary
Tendon transfer surgery can help many patients with cervical spinal cord injuries regain upper extremity function. Patient engagement and clear expectations are key to satisfaction with these restorative procedures.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Rehabilitation Medicine
Background:
- Cervical spinal cord injuries often impair upper extremity function, significantly impacting daily living.
- Restoring hand grasp, pinch, release, and elbow extension is crucial for patient independence.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the potential benefits of upper extremity tendon transfer surgery for cervical spinal cord injury patients.
- To identify factors influencing patient satisfaction after tendon transfer procedures.
Main Methods:
- Review of estimated patient populations who could benefit from tendon transfer.
- Analysis of surgical goals and patient-reported outcomes.
Main Results:
- An estimated 65% to 75% of patients with cervical spinal cord injuries are candidates for tendon transfer surgery.
- Successful surgery restores essential functions like elbow extension and hand manipulation.
- High patient satisfaction correlates with defined goals, active therapy participation, and understood outcomes.
Conclusions:
- Tendon transfer surgery offers significant functional restoration for many with cervical spinal cord injuries.
- Optimizing patient engagement and managing expectations are vital for successful surgical outcomes and satisfaction.
