Name of the Procedure:

Repair, Flexor Tendon, Leg; Primary, Without Graft, Each Tendon

Common Name(s):

Flexor Tendon Repair

Summary

Flexor tendon repair in the leg is a surgical procedure to fix a damaged or severed tendon responsible for controlling the bending of a joint. The procedure is done without using a graft to replace the tendon tissue.

Purpose

This procedure addresses tendon injuries causing loss of movement or function in the leg. The goal is to restore normal movement, strength, and function by directly repairing the damaged tendon.

Indications

• Tendon laceration or rupture.
• Loss of flexion (bending) in the leg joint.
• Pain and swelling due to a torn tendon.
• Incomplete healing from previous injuries.

Preparation

• Fasting is typically required 6-8 hours before surgery.
• Medication review; adjustments may be necessary.
• Preoperative imaging studies like MRI or ultrasound to assess tendon damage.
• Physical exam and medical history review.

Procedure Description

1. Anesthesia: General or regional anesthesia is administered.
2. Incision: A small incision is made over the site of the tendon injury.
3. Repair: The edges of the torn tendon are identified, aligned, and sutured together.
4. Closure: The incision is closed with sutures, and a bandage is applied.
5. Immobilization: A splint or cast is used to immobilize the leg and protect the repair.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 1-2 hours.

Setting

The procedure is performed in a hospital or surgical center.

Personnel

• Orthopedic surgeon.
• Surgical nurses.
• Anesthesiologist.

Risks and Complications

• Infection at the surgical site.
• Bleeding or hematoma formation.
• Stiffness or loss of joint movement.
• Tendon re-rupture.
• Nerve damage causing numbness or weakness.
• Allergic reaction to anesthesia.

Benefits

• Restored movement and flexibility in the affected joint.
• Reduced pain and swelling.
• Improved overall function and quality of life.
• Typically, within a few months, significant improvements are noticed.

Recovery

• Initial immobilization with a cast or splint for several weeks.
• Pain management with prescribed medications.
• Physical therapy to regain strength and mobility.
• Follow-up appointments to monitor healing.
• Gradual return to normal activities over approximately 3-6 months.

Alternatives

• Non-surgical management like physical therapy (mostly for partial tears).
• Tendon grafting if primary repair is not feasible.
• The pros of non-surgical management include no surgical risks, but it might not restore full function.

Patient Experience

• Anesthesia ensures no pain during the procedure.
• Post-procedure discomfort is managed with pain relief measures.
• Some stiffness and swelling initially, with gradual improvement.
• Commitment to rehabilitation is essential for optimal recovery.