Restoring Hand Function After Spinal Cord Injury
Damage to the upper spine may cause paralysis (tetraplegia or quadriplegia). In some cases, tendon transfer can restore function to the arms and legs.
What is a tendon transfer?
A tendon transfer procedure is used to restore the function of the hands following spinal cord surgery.
It involves connecting a section of tendon to a weakened muscle, which lets your functioning muscles compensate for paralysed ones. The tendon transfer is usually autologous (taken from your own body), which reduces your chances of infection and rejection.
As it relies on having functional muscles to connect to, tendon transfer surgery is recommended for people who still have some muscle control.
What can be achieved with a tendon transfer?
- Straightening and bending of the elbow
- Straightening and bending of the wrist
- Improved grip and pinch function
Elbow tendon transfer (elbow extension)
In an elbow tendon transfer, part of the deltoid muscle is detached from the shoulder and grafted to the elbow.
This imitates the function of the triceps muscle which allows you to straighten and bend your elbow. Added elbow function can help you propel a wheelchair, reach for objects, and potentially drive.
Wrist and hand tendon transfer (for key pinch)
Wrist and hand tendon transfer involves rerouting functioning muscles from the forearm and attaching them to the tendons in your hand and fingers.
This can help restore grasping and pinching motions, which can help you eat, brush your teeth, write, or use a mobile phone.
Electronic implants
These are a new alternative available for patients where tendon transfers are not viable.
Similar to a pacemaker, electronic implants stimulate muscles using small electrical signals. These can initiate grip and pinching actions.
What can we expect from tendon transfer surgery?
Tendon transfer surgery normally lasts about 6 hours. As it is an invasive procedure, certain risks are involved.
Dr James McLean will discuss these with you prior to your procedure.
Tendon transfer surgery generally achieve a wonderful outcome for patients, restoring their hand and arm function.
Patient information for hand and wrist surgeries, injuries and conditions.
Hand & Wrist Treatments
Dr James McLean performs many different surgeries to treat hand/wrist injuries and conditions. Browse the links below for more information on individual surgeries and how they are performed.
Depending on the type and severity of your hand/wrist injury, surgery might be the best option. Dr James McLean specialises in minimally invasive arthroscopic (key-hole) surgery. His aim is to get you the best possible outcome, taking into account your lifestyle, general health and family situation. Before surgery, Dr McLean will guide you through the process and address any concerns you have.
If you have a sports injury or other hand/wrist condition, act now and make an appointment. Delaying treatment can cause permanent damage and reduce the potential for a full recovery.
Call our friendly team on 08 7077 0101 to make an appointment or use our handy online booking service. Consultations are available in Dulwich (SA), Bedford Park (SA) and Elizabeth Vale (SA).
Common Hand & Wrist Injuries
Browse the links below for more information on common hand and wrist injuries, including the main causes, symptoms and treatments.
Hand & Wrist Conditions
Browse the links below for more information on specific hand and wrist conditions, including the main causes, symptoms and treatments.
Hand & Wrist Patient Information
Patient resources for hand conditions
Check out Dr McLean’s articles on hand related information and post surgery information.
Once you have a referral…
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