Name of the Procedure:

Tenolysis, flexor, foot; multiple tendons

Summary

Tenolysis is a surgical procedure aimed at freeing tendons in the foot that are restricted by adhesions. This procedure specifically addresses multiple tendons of the flexor group in the foot to restore their normal movement and function.

Purpose

The procedure is intended to alleviate pain and improve mobility by releasing tendons that have become immobilized due to scar tissue and adhesions. The primary goal is to improve the range of motion and enhance the functional ability of the foot.

Indications

• Restricted movement of the foot due to tendon adhesions.
• Pain in the foot exacerbated by movement.
• Stiffness in the foot following injury or surgery.
• Failure to respond to conservative treatments like physical therapy.

Preparation

• Patients may be advised to fast for 8-12 hours before the procedure.
• Medication adjustments may be necessary, especially blood thinners.
• Preoperative assessments could include X-rays or MRI scans to visualize the extent of the adhesions.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is positioned on the operating table, and anesthesia is administered (usually local or regional).
2. An incision is made over the affected tendons in the foot.
3. The surgeon carefully dissects through the tissue to access the adhesions.
4. The adhesions are meticulously released from the tendons.
5. The wound is irrigated and closed with stitches.
6. A sterile bandage is applied to the site.

Duration

The procedure typically takes 1-2 hours, depending on the extent of adhesions and the number of tendons involved.

Setting

Tenolysis, flexor, foot is usually performed in a hospital operating room or an outpatient surgical center.

Personnel

• Orthopedic surgeon or podiatrist
• Surgical nurse
• Anesthesiologist or nurse anesthetist

Risks and Complications

• Infection at the site of surgery
• Persistent pain or stiffness
• Nerve damage
• Reoccurrence of adhesions
• Scarring

Benefits

• Restoration of normal tendon movement
• Reduction in pain and discomfort
• Improved foot function and mobility
• Immediate to gradual improvement in symptoms post-surgery

Recovery

• Initial rest and elevation of the foot
• Pain management with prescribed medications
• Follow-up appointments to monitor healing
• Physical therapy to restore strength and flexibility
• Recovery period may range from several weeks to a few months, depending on the individual case.

Alternatives

• Physical therapy and exercises to improve flexibility and range of motion
• Steroid injections to reduce inflammation and pain
• Non-surgical options generally involve a longer recovery period and may not be as effective if severe adhesions are present.

Patient Experience

• Patients may feel some discomfort during the procedure if local anesthesia is used.
• Post-procedure pain and swelling can be managed with medication and ice packs.
• Patients will need to limit weight-bearing activities initially and gradually increase activity as advised by their healthcare provider.
• Regular attendance at physical therapy sessions is crucial for optimal recovery.