Name of the Procedure:

Repair, tendon or muscle, flexor, forearm and/or wrist; secondary, single, each tendon or muscle

Summary

This procedure involves surgically repairing a damaged or torn flexor tendon or muscle in the forearm or wrist. It is typically a secondary repair, meaning it addresses issues after an initial treatment has been performed, which may not have successfully healed the tendon or muscle.

Purpose

The procedure is performed to restore functionality and movement to the forearm or wrist by repairing damaged flexor tendons or muscles. The goal is to alleviate pain, improve grip strength, and enhance the range of motion.

Indications

• Persistent pain or weakness in the forearm or wrist following an injury.
• Loss of function or decreased range of motion in the forearm or wrist.
• Non-healing or improperly healed tendon or muscle tear observed after the initial treatment.

Preparation

• The patient may be instructed to fast for several hours before the procedure if general anesthesia will be used.
• Adjustments to current medications may be necessary, particularly blood thinners or other medications affecting bleeding and clotting.
• Preoperative imaging, such as MRI or ultrasound, may be performed to assess the extent of the injury.

Procedure Description

1. Anesthesia is administered, which may be local, regional, or general, depending on the extent of the surgery.
2. An incision is made near the site of the injury in the forearm or wrist.
3. The damaged or torn tendon or muscle is located, and scar tissue or adhesions are removed if necessary.
4. The ends of the tendon or muscle are carefully sutured together using specialized surgical techniques.
5. The incision is closed with stitches, and a sterile dressing is applied.

Duration

The procedure typically takes between 1 to 2 hours, depending on the complexity of the repair.

Setting

The procedure is performed in a hospital or an outpatient surgical center.

Personnel

• Orthopedic surgeon or hand surgeon
• Anesthesiologist or nurse anesthetist
• Surgical nurses and technicians

Risks and Complications

• Infection at the surgical site
• Bleeding or hematoma formation
• Nerve damage resulting in numbness or weakness
• Stiffness or reduced range of motion post-surgery
• Re-rupture of the repaired tendon or muscle

Benefits

• Restoration of normal function and movement in the forearm and wrist.
• Reduction or elimination of pain.
• Improved grip strength and dexterity.
• Enhanced overall quality of life due to regained functionality.

Recovery

• The patient will need to wear a splint or cast for several weeks to immobilize the repaired area.
• Physical therapy will be prescribed to regain strength and mobility.
• Full recovery and return to normal activities can take several months, with gradual improvement over time.

Alternatives

• Non-surgical options such as physical therapy, bracing, or corticosteroid injections.
• Primary repair or reconstruction for acute injuries.
• Pros and cons: Non-surgical treatments may offer temporary relief but might not fully restore function, whereas surgery provides a more definitive solution but involves surgical risks.

Patient Experience

• Patients may experience pain and swelling after the surgery, manageable with prescribed pain medications.
• Discomfort from the splint or cast, which will be necessary to protect the repair.
• Gradual return of movement and strength with physical therapy, with most patients noticing significant improvements within a few months.

This detailed markdown description includes all the relevant information needed to understand the procedure for the repair of tendons or muscles in the forearm and wrist.