Tenodesis is a surgical procedure that involves attaching the end of a tendon to a bone. This operation is performed to stabilize a joint, restore function, or alleviate pain by securing a tendon in a new position.
Understanding Tenodesis
The term "tenodesis" itself combines "teno-" (referring to a tendon) and "-desis" (meaning to bind or fuse). At its core, it is an operation designed to suture, or stitch, a tendon directly to bone. This creates a secure attachment point, allowing the tendon to either act as a stable anchor or to transfer the function of a muscle to a new location.
Key Aspects of Tenodesis:
- Surgical Intervention: Tenodesis is always a surgical procedure, requiring precise techniques to ensure proper healing and function.
- Purpose: The primary goal is often to provide stability, address tendon instability, manage pain, or improve range of motion where a tendon might be damaged or dysfunctional.
- Application: While it can be performed in various parts of the body, it is commonly associated with shoulder and wrist procedures.
Why is Tenodesis Performed?
Tenodesis is typically recommended when a tendon is damaged, unstable, or needs to be repositioned to improve joint mechanics or muscle function. Common reasons include:
- Tendon Instability: When a tendon repeatedly dislocates or shifts out of its normal groove, causing pain and dysfunction.
- Tendon Rupture or Damage: To repair or reattach a torn tendon, especially when the original attachment site is compromised.
- Pain Relief: Stabilizing an unstable tendon can significantly reduce pain, particularly with movement.
- Muscle Transfer: In some cases, a tendon might be moved and reattached to a different bone to transfer the pulling action of a muscle to a new location, often to compensate for weakness or paralysis elsewhere.
Common Applications of Tenodesis
One of the most frequent applications of this procedure is biceps tenodesis, which addresses issues with the long head of the biceps tendon in the shoulder.
| Type of Tenodesis | Common Location | Primary Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Biceps Tenodesis | Shoulder | Stabilize or reattach the long head of the biceps tendon, often to relieve pain and improve shoulder function after injury or degeneration. |
| Wrist Tenodesis | Wrist | To stabilize wrist joints or facilitate tendon transfers to improve hand function following nerve injury or paralysis. |
| Rotator Cuff Repair | Shoulder | Though not solely a tenodesis, it often involves reattaching rotator cuff tendons to the bone. |
The Surgical Procedure
The procedure generally involves:
- Access: The surgeon makes an incision to access the affected tendon and bone.
- Tendon Preparation: The end of the tendon is prepared, often by removing damaged tissue.
- Bone Preparation: A small tunnel or trough is created in the bone where the tendon will be attached.
- Attachment: The tendon is then secured to the bone using various techniques, such as sutures, anchors, or screws. This creates a strong, lasting bond as the tendon heals into the bone.
- Closure: The incision is closed, and the patient typically undergoes a period of immobilization and physical therapy for rehabilitation.
Benefits of Tenodesis
- Pain Reduction: By stabilizing or repairing a problematic tendon, pain can be significantly reduced or eliminated.
- Improved Function: The procedure aims to restore or enhance the stability and function of the affected joint.
- Enhanced Strength: A properly healed tenodesis can help restore strength to the muscles associated with the reattached tendon.
- Long-Term Stability: It provides a durable solution for chronic tendon instability.
For more detailed information on specific tenodesis procedures and their outcomes, it is advisable to consult reliable medical resources such as the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.
