Repair of Fractures, Tendons, Nerves

Fracture, tendon or nerve surgery is performed to repair a complicated injury that cannot be fixed through other methods. A tendon is a flexible but tough band that connects the muscle to the bone. A bundle of fibers, nerves send signals between the brain and other parts of the body. If the nerve has been injured, each nerve should be tested individually with extension movements of the elbow, wrist and fingers. If the bone or tendon is fractured or torn, surgery is performed when nonsurgical methods cannot realign or reduce the injury.

What to Expect

Using general or local anesthesia, the patient will be pain-free during the procedure. When fixing a bone fracture, the doctor will surgically cut and place the bone in the proper position. When repairing a tendon, the doctor will make an incision and reconnect the damaged tendon. Depending on the severity of the nerve, fracture or tendon injury, skin or nerve grafting may be necessary to repair the ends of the damaged nerve and restore sensation. Recovery time will vary depending on the area and severity of the injury.

How to Prepare
