Learn about Tendon Transfer in Arm 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 Tendon Transfer in Arm and request assistance for cost estimates or appointments.

About Tendon Transfer in Arm

Tendon transfer in the arm is a specialized surgical procedure performed by pediatric orthopedic surgeons to restore function and improve mobility in a child's upper limb. This intricate operation involves rerouting a healthy, functioning tendon from its original attachment to a new location to take over the work of a damaged or paralyzed muscle. Commonly used to address conditions like brachial plexus birth injuries, cerebral palsy, or traumatic nerve damage, the surgery aims to enhance hand grasp, elbow flexion, or wrist stability. The procedure is highly customized based on the child's specific functional deficit, age, and growth potential. Post-operative rehabilitation is critical for retraining the transferred muscle and achieving optimal outcomes, helping children gain greater independence in daily activities.

Key Highlights

    Restores critical arm and hand functions like grasping, lifting, and reaching.Can significantly improve a child's independence in daily activities and quality of life.Utilizes the body's own tissues (tendons), avoiding the need for artificial implants.Procedure is tailored to the child's specific anatomy and functional goals.Often prevents or delays the development of joint contractures and deformities.Performed by pediatric specialists experienced in growing musculoskeletal systems./ul

Who is this surgery for?

  • Brachial Plexus Birth Palsy (Erb's Palsy) with persistent weakness.
  • Cerebral Palsy affecting upper limb function (e.g., spastic hemiplegia).
  • Traumatic nerve injuries in the arm that have not recovered.
  • Certain congenital hand and arm anomalies.
  • Muscle paralysis due to conditions like polio or spinal cord injuries.
  • To improve specific functions like wrist extension, finger flexion, or thumb opposition.

How to prepare

  • Comprehensive evaluation including physical exam, imaging (MRI/Ultrasound), and nerve conduction studies.
  • Detailed discussion of surgical goals, expectations, and the rehabilitation process with the family.
  • Pre-operative occupational therapy to assess baseline function and strength.
  • Pre-anesthetic check-up to ensure the child is fit for surgery.
  • Fasting as instructed by the anesthesiologist, typically 6-8 hours for solids.
  • Arranging for post-surgery care and therapy sessions in advance.

Risks & possible complications

  • General surgical risks: Infection, bleeding, or adverse reaction to anesthesia.
  • Stiffness or reduced range of motion in the operated joint.
  • Weakness or failure of the transferred tendon to function as intended.
  • Over-correction or under-correction of the deformity.
  • Nerve or blood vessel damage during surgery.
  • Scar tissue formation (adhesions) limiting tendon glide.
  • Need for additional procedures in the future.

Recovery & hospital stay

  • Arm will be immobilized in a cast or splint for 3-6 weeks to protect the tendon transfer.
  • Strict adherence to the surgeon's instructions on cast care and positioning.
  • Initiation of supervised occupational/hand therapy soon after surgery to manage swelling and begin gentle mobilization.
  • Gradual, therapist-guided exercises to retrain the transferred muscle and strengthen the arm.
  • Protection of the arm from strenuous activity or sports for several months.
  • Regular follow-up visits to monitor healing and adjust the therapy plan.
  • Full integration of new muscle function can take 6 months to a year.
  • checked Typical hospital stay: 2-3 days
  • checked Expected recovery time: 3-6 months for functional recovery

Frequently Asked Questions

If you are considering tendon transfer in arm 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 tendon transfer in arm compare across other countries where we have data.

Country Estimated cost range Typical stay Recovery time View details
India USD 1,632 – USD 3,807 2-3 days ~ 3-6 months for functional recovery Know More
Turkey USD 12,079 – USD 28,184 2-3 days ~ 3-6 months for functional recovery Know More
PATIENT REVIEW

Our 8-year-old daughter fractured her elbow...

Our 8-year-old daughter fractured her elbow in a playground fall, and Dr. Prashanth Inna was absolutely phenomenal. He explained the complex procedure in simple terms, calmed our nerves, and the minimally invasive surgery went perfectly. His follow-up care was thorough, and she's now back to gymnastics without any issues!

Pediatric Orthopedics for Tendon Transfer in Arm

Explore experienced pediatric orthopedics who regularly perform tendon transfer in arm and provide pre- and post-operative care in India.

Dr. Neeraj Gupta
  • 15 Years Experience
  • Pediatric Orthopedics
Speaks: English, Hindi
Next available on
02/Feb: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Ghaziabad

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Prashanth Inna
  • 24 Years Experience
  • Pediatric Orthopedics
Speaks: English, Hindi
Next available on
02/Feb: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Abhishek Nandi
  • 9 Years Experience
  • Pediatric Orthopedics
Speaks: English, Hindi
Next available on
02/Feb: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Mukundapur

OPD-desk synced • Updated