Restoration of Arm and Hand Functions in Tetraplegia – Lifechanging Surgery
For people with tetraplegia, restoring arm and hand function is the most important goal
A spinal cord injury at the neck level with subsequent tetraplegia causes a dramatic change of life for the individual as well as for her/his family and friends. Tremendous efforts are put into research that would eventually cure a severely damaged spinal cord and increase the functional capacity of arms and legs.
We are, however, not there yet but with proven surgical treatment options we can provide partial functional recovery for the majority of the individuals living with tetraplegia to achieve a higher degree of independence. The higher the spinal cord injury, the more limited the surgical options.
The main surgical techniques used are nerve and tendon transfers.
What is a nerve transfer?
After a nerve transfer, it takes several months up to a more than a year until a new muscle function will recover, because the nerve has to re-grow down to the muscle.
Nerve transfers should ideally be performed within one year after the accident, since later the muscle may not be responsive any more.
Our most commonly used nerve transfers restore finger and thumb extension and flexion.
Schematic image of a nerve transfer
What is a tendon transfer?
The priority objectives are to restore elbow extension and grasp function.
For each patient, an individual reconstruction plan has to be defined which considers various factors as level of lesion, existing functions, expendable donor nerve or tendons and of course patients request and preferences. Combining nerve and tendon transfers is a promising concept.
Finally, it cannot be stressed enough that the success of surgery is very much depending on the team effort of a highly motivated patient and a team of dedicated experts responsible for rehabilitation and care.
Schematic image of a tendon transfer
Hand and Tetrahand Surgery
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Swiss Paraplegic Centre
Guido A. Zäch-Strasse 1
CH-6207 Nottwil
E-Mail | T +41 41 939 52 00
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