Introduction
The aim of surgery is to reattach the torn tendon end to bone. Ideally surgery should be performed within 2-3 weeks of injury.
Indications
Surgery is recommended for some people:
- Workers who require strength in supination (e.g.: repetitively turning screwdriver).
- Athletes.
- Those concerned about cosmetic appearance of a ruptured tendon.
Procedure
The surgery is under general anaesthesia and is performed as day only surgery in hospital. Through a small incision at the front of the shoulder, the torn tendon end is identified and reattached (if reparable) to the bone using a hole in the bone through which an anchor is inserted.
The arm is placed in a sling post operatively to protect the tendon reattachment.
Recovery
- Day surgery.
- Start gentle elbow / hand / finger movement immediately after surgery.
- Sports and manual labour using the affected arm can begin at approximately 12 weeks post-surgery.
Results
- Patients regain strength and normal function at approximately 3-4 month post-surgery.
- Some pain at reattachment site may be expected.
- The muscle shape is returned to normal.
Risks and complications
These include:
- Re-rupture of tendon in those with poor tendon quality.
- Pain at surgical site.
- Nerve injury.