Using tendon transfer surgery to restore key functions in spinal cord injury patient

[rangerrebew]

Using tendon transfer surgery to restore key functions in spinal cord injury patient

 

July 20, 2018

After suffering a severe cervical spinal cord injury from a bad fall at work, Scott McConnell had little function remaining in his hands and arms.

Loyola Medicine orthopaedic surgeon Michael Bednar, MD, was able to restore key functions with a series of operations called tendon transfers.

Mr. McConnell now can open his fingers up much more than he could before, and he can close them in a tight grip. He can pinch with his thumb and extend his arms outward. He is able to more easily perform everyday tasks such as grasping a cup, brushing his teeth and using his cell phone.

https://www.news-medical.net/news/20180720/Using-tendon-transfer-surgery-to-restore-key-functions-in-spinal-cord-injury-patient.aspx

[rangerrebew]

I can tell you from experience if there is surgery on your foot where the surgeon has to snip the Achilles Tendon, the doctor may take a tendon from the big toe to reconnect and lengthen the Achilles.  A screw is then placed in the toe to keep it from flopping in the breeze.