Learn about Steindler Flexoroplasty Treatment in India — how it works, who it is for, recovery timelines, and what to expect before and after surgery. Compare hospitals and doctors experienced in Steindler Flexoroplasty and request assistance for cost estimates or appointments.

About Steindler Flexoroplasty

Steindler Flexoroplasty is a specialized reconstructive surgical procedure performed by pediatric orthopedic surgeons to restore elbow flexion in children with significant weakness or paralysis of the biceps and brachialis muscles. Commonly indicated for conditions like brachial plexus birth injuries (e.g., Erb's Palsy) or post-polio syndrome, the surgery involves transferring the flexor-pronator muscle group from the inner elbow to a new attachment point on the humerus bone. This transfer allows the child to use their wrist and finger flexor muscles to actively bend the elbow, thereby improving the ability to bring the hand to the mouth and perform essential daily activities. The procedure is a cornerstone of functional upper limb reconstruction, aiming to enhance independence and quality of life for pediatric patients.

Key Highlights

    Restores active elbow flexion, enabling essential functions like feeding and self-care.Utilizes the patient's own muscles (autograft), eliminating rejection risks.Primarily performed in children, taking advantage of neuromuscular plasticity for better adaptation.Can significantly improve limb position, hygiene, and overall upper limb function.Often part of a staged, comprehensive surgical plan for complex brachial plexus injuries.

Who is this surgery for?

  • Persistent, significant weakness or paralysis of elbow flexors (biceps/brachialis) due to brachial plexus birth palsy (obstetrical brachial plexus injury).
  • Residual deficit from poliomyelitis affecting upper limb function.
  • Traumatic nerve injuries leading to irrecoverable loss of elbow flexion.
  • Certain spinal cord or peripheral nerve disorders resulting in a flail elbow.
  • Patients with adequate strength in the wrist and finger flexor muscles (the donor muscles) to power the transfer.

How to prepare

  • Comprehensive evaluation by a pediatric orthopedic surgeon and often a neurologist or physiatrist.
  • Detailed physical examination and muscle strength grading (e.g., Medical Research Council scale) of the affected and donor muscles.
  • Diagnostic imaging such as MRI or ultrasound to assess muscle anatomy and health.
  • Electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction studies to evaluate nerve and muscle function.
  • Pre-operative physiotherapy to maintain joint range of motion and muscle conditioning.
  • Standard pre-surgical protocols: blood tests, anesthesia consultation, and fasting instructions.

Risks & possible complications

  • Infection at the surgical site.
  • Bleeding or hematoma formation.
  • Nerve injury, potentially affecting sensation or function in the hand.
  • Incomplete transfer or failure of the muscle transfer to provide adequate elbow flexion.
  • Loss of wrist or finger flexion strength (donor site morbidity).
  • Elbow flexion contracture or stiffness.
  • Scarring and wound healing issues.
  • Risks associated with general anesthesia.

Recovery & hospital stay

  • Initial immobilization in a cast or splint with the elbow bent for approximately 4-6 weeks to protect the transfer.
  • Strict elevation of the arm to manage post-operative swelling.
  • Pain management as prescribed by the medical team.
  • Gradual, supervised initiation of physiotherapy after immobilization to 're-educate' the transferred muscle and regain elbow motion.
  • Long-term, dedicated occupational and physical therapy is crucial to train the brain to use the new muscle pathway and maximize functional gains.
  • Regular follow-up visits with the surgeon to monitor healing and progress.
  • Full integration and strength development can take several months to a year.
  • checked Typical hospital stay: 3-5 days
  • checked Expected recovery time: 6-12 months for full functional recovery

Frequently Asked Questions

If you are considering steindler flexoroplasty in India, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.

Procedure cost in other countries

Here is an overview of how the estimated cost, hospital stay, and recovery time for steindler flexoroplasty compare across other countries where we have data.

Country Estimated cost range Typical stay Recovery time View details
India INR 150 Thousand – 350 Thousand 3-5 days ~ 6-12 months for full functional recovery Know More
Turkey TRY 525 Thousand – 1.23 Million 3-5 days ~ 6-12 months for full functional recovery Know More
PATIENT REVIEW

Sophia Ali is a bright and...

Sophia Ali is a bright and determined 8-year-old who loves drawing and playing the piano. She was born with a brachial plexus injury during a difficult delivery, leaving her with a weak right hand and an inability to bend her elbow fully. For years, she has struggled with simple tasks like brushing her hair, feeding herself, or holding a book. Her parents noticed her growing frustration as she watched her friends do things with ease. After years of occupational therapy with limited progress, her pediatric orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Evans, recommended a Steindler flexoroplasty. He explained that by transferring muscles from her wrist to her elbow, they could give her the strength to bend her arm. The surgery went smoothly. The initial weeks in a cast were challenging for the active girl, but she was motivated by the promise of a more functional arm. After intensive post-op therapy, Sophia gained over 45 degrees of active elbow flexion. The emotional shift was profound; she went from feeling defined by her limitation to empowered by her new ability. She can now hug her parents with both arms, play simple melodies on the piano with two hands, and her drawings are more detailed than ever.

Pediatric Orthopedics for Steindler Flexoroplasty

Explore experienced pediatric orthopedics who regularly perform steindler flexoroplasty and provide pre- and post-operative care in India.

Dr. Neeraj Gupta
  • 14 Years Experience
  • Pediatric Orthopedics
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 700
Available Today
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Ghaziabad, Ghaziabad

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Prashanth Inna
  • 23 Years Experience
  • Pediatric Orthopedics
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 850
Available Today
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Abhishek Nandi
  • 8 Years Experience
  • Pediatric Orthopedics
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 1000
Available Today
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Mukundapur, Kolkata

OPD-desk synced • Updated