Tendon transfer surgery

Need to know

• What happens icon plus

  We have leading experts and diagnostic tests to diagnose your issues, which will involve a detailed clinical assessment supported by diagnostic tests such as ultrasound, MRI scans and nerve conduction studies. In most cases non-operative methods using splints and physiotherapy to strengthen the working muscles are used before any surgery is considered. If surgery is considered, this is usually under general anaesthetic and your specialist may transfer a tendon and replace it with a healthy tendon used for a different function. The tendons are either stitched onto the existing tendons or re-routed through a bone tunnel.

• How to prepare icon plus

  Your consultant will let you know how best to prepare for your surgery.

• Afterwards icon plus

  You will need to stay in hospital for between one and two nights. Your foot will be elevated for the first two weeks and will be supported in a plaster cast below the knee for up to six weeks. Rehabilitation involves a multidisciplinary team of expert nurses, physiotherapists and occupational therapists all overseen by your specialist consultant. Return to work in a non-manual job is usually possible by 2-4 weeks but complete recovery can take up to a year.