Name of the Procedure:

Repair of Flexor Tendon or Muscle in the Forearm and/or Wrist; Primary, Single, Each Tendon or Muscle

Summary

In layman's terms, this procedure involves surgically repairing a single damaged flexor tendon or muscle in the forearm or wrist. Tendons connect muscles to bones and help facilitate movement, so their repair is crucial when they are injured.

Purpose

This procedure addresses injuries to flexor tendons or muscles in the forearm or wrist, which can result from accidents, sports injuries, or overuse. The primary goal is to restore function, allowing the patient to regain normal movement and strength in the affected area.

Indications

• Severe laceration or tear in the flexor tendons/muscles.
• Loss of movement or strength in the affected forearm or wrist.
• Persistent pain or discomfort that does not respond to other treatments.

Patient Criteria:

• Confirmed diagnosis of flexor tendon/muscle injury.
• Good overall health to withstand surgery and recover.

Preparation

• Patients may need to fast for several hours before the procedure.
• Adjustments to medications, particularly blood thinners, as directed by the surgeon.
• Pre-operative diagnostic tests such as MRIs, X-rays, or ultrasound may be required.

Procedure Description

1. Administer anesthesia (local, regional, or general depending on the case).
2. Make an incision over the injured area to expose the damaged tendon/muscle.
3. Carefully repair the tendon or muscle using sutures or other techniques.
4. Close the incision with stitches and apply a sterile dressing.

Tools and Equipment:

• Surgical knives and scissors
• Sutures
• Sterile drapes and dressings
• Anesthesia equipment

Duration

Typically, the procedure lasts between 1 to 2 hours.

Setting

Performed in a hospital operating room or an outpatient surgical center.

Personnel

• Orthopedic or plastic surgeon
• Anesthesiologist or nurse anesthetist
• Surgical nurses and assistants

Risks and Complications

• Infection
• Bleeding
• Nerve damage
• Poor healing or scarring
• Stiffness or reduced mobility in the affected area
• Need for additional surgeries

Benefits

• Restoration of normal function and strength in the wrist or forearm.
• Relief from pain and discomfort.
• Improved quality of life and ability to perform daily activities.

Recovery

• Post-operative care includes keeping the area clean and dry.
• Pain management with prescribed medications.
• Physical therapy may be recommended to regain strength and mobility.
• Recovery time varies but typically ranges from several weeks to a few months.
• Follow-up appointments to monitor healing progress.

Alternatives

• Non-surgical treatments like physical therapy, splinting, and medications, which might not be effective for severe injuries.
• Minimally invasive procedures if applicable, each with its own risks and benefits.

Patient Experience

During the procedure, the patient won’t feel anything due to anesthesia. Post-surgery, there may be pain, swelling, and stiffness, which can be managed with pain medications and physical therapy. Full recovery may take several months, but gradual improvements will become noticeable within a few weeks.