Name of the Procedure:

Neurectomy, hamstring muscle

Summary

A neurectomy of the hamstring muscle is a surgical procedure in which a section of a nerve innervating the hamstring muscle is removed. This is done to relieve chronic pain or to treat spasms in the hamstring area that have not responded to other treatments.

Purpose

The procedure addresses:

• Chronic pain in the hamstring muscle
• Persistent muscle spasms or contractures

The goals are to:

• Alleviate pain
• Improve muscle function and movement
• Enhance the patient’s quality of life

Indications

• Chronic, debilitating pain in the hamstring area not responsive to other treatments
• Recurrent, severe muscle spasms or contractures
• Diagnosis of conditions such as muscle dystonia or spasticity

Preparation

• Patients may be advised to fast for at least 6-8 hours prior to the procedure.
• Medication adjustments might be necessary; patients should inform their healthcare provider about all medications they are taking.
• Pre-operative imaging studies or nerve conduction tests may be required.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is positioned to expose the hamstring area.
2. General or regional anesthesia is administered to ensure comfort.
3. An incision is made in the posterior thigh to access the hamstring muscle.
4. The targeted nerve is carefully identified and a segment is removed to disrupt nerve impulses.
5. The incision is closed with sutures.

Tools and equipment:

• Surgical scalpel
• Hemostatic instruments
• Electrocautery device
• Sterile sutures

Duration

The procedure typically takes 1-2 hours, depending on the complexity.

Setting

This procedure is performed in a hospital or outpatient surgical center.

Personnel

• Surgeon (typically an orthopedic or nerve specialist)
• Anesthesiologist
• Surgical nurses
• Surgical technologists

Risks and Complications

Common risks:

• Infection at the incision site
• Bleeding or hematoma
• Temporary or permanent numbness

Rare risks:

• Nerve damage
• Anesthesia-related complications
• Poor wound healing

Benefits

• Significant reduction in pain
• Improved muscle function
• Enhanced ability to perform daily activities Benefits may be realized within a few weeks after recovery.

Recovery

• Patients may need to stay in the hospital for observation overnight.
• Pain and discomfort are managed with prescribed medications.
• Physical therapy may be recommended to regain muscle strength and mobility.
• Full recovery can take several weeks to a few months, depending on individual health factors.
• Follow-up appointments are necessary to monitor progress.

Alternatives

• Physical therapy and rehabilitation
• Medication management such as pain relievers or muscle relaxants
• Nerve blocks or injections
• Intrathecal baclofen pump for spasticity

Pros of alternatives:

• Non-invasive or less invasive
• Lower immediate risk

Cons of alternatives:

• May not provide long-term relief
• Multiple treatments may be needed

Patient Experience

During the procedure:

• The patient will be under anesthesia and should not feel pain. After the procedure:
• Initial pain at the incision site is common and managed with medications.
• The patient may experience numbness in the area of the surgery.
• Gradual improvement in symptoms is expected with adherence to recovery protocols.
• Specific instructions on wound care, activity limitations, and signs of complications will be provided for a smoother recovery.

Pain management and comfort measures will be tailored to each patient’s needs to ensure the best possible outcome.