Life Healthcare is a leading private hospital operator in South Africa and primarily serves the market for privately insured individuals, representing approximately eight million people. The group provides mainly acute care, high technology private hospital services.
Nelson Mandela Academic Hospital is a large Provincial government funded hospital situated in central Mthatha in South Africa. It is a tertiary teaching hospital and forms part of the Mthatha Hospital Complex.
The extensive hospital network includes 64 hospitals (of which 57 are majority owned by Life Healthcare and another seven in which the group holds substantial minority ownership), providing a range of healthcare services throughout South Africa.
The skin overlying the injured tendon is cleansed using an antiseptic solution.
An incision is made over the injured tendon.
Once the tendon is located, the damaged ends of the tendon are sutured together.
In case of severe damage, a tendon graft is used by taking a part of tendon from any other part of the patient's body.
The tendon graft is then used to repair the severely injured tendon.
Connective tissues around the tendons may be reattached if required.
The incision is closed with stitches and covered with a bandage.
How to Prepare for Tendon Repair Surgery?
The patient is physically examined to ensure that the patient is in a good condition to undergo surgery.
The patient's affected joint is studied using radiographs and other imaging tests.
Some joint fluid may be withdrawn using a needle, which is tested for any signs of infection, bleeding, and arthritis.
The doctor should be informed about any medication that the patient is taking with or without a prescription. These may include supplements or herbs or drugs.
Certain medication that the patient is taking may be stopped two weeks before the surgery.
The doctor should be informed if the patient has any ailments or medical conditions.
The patient must stop smoking to ensure a quick recovery.
An anesthesiologist will interview the patient to determine the appropriate anesthesia for the patient.
About Tendon Repair Surgery
Key facts to plan your treatment: how long it takes, your hospital stay, anaesthesia, risks and recovery.
Days admitted
Tendon repair surgery is done as an outpatient procedure.
Anesthesia
Local, regional or general anesthesia is used, depending on the severity and location of the injury.
Recovery
- A cast or splint may be used to support the healing of the tendon for about 6 weeks.
- Depending on the location and severity of the tendon damage, the patient may need to rest the affected tendon.
- Medication may be prescribed by the doctor to control pain.
- The patient may recover to be able to resume light activities within a few days.
Risks
Risks of surgery include:
- Scar tissue formation that prevents smooth movements
- Injury to the nerves and other blood vessels
- Partial dysfunction of the affected joint
- Joint stiffness
- Bleeding
- Blood clotting
- Infection
After care
- The surgical bandages should be kept clean and dry. It should be covered while the patient is bathing.
- Medication should be taken according to the doctor’s orders.
- If patients are taking narcotic medicines, they should not drive.
- The patient should undergo physical therapy to help in recovery.
The doctor should be informed immediately if the following symptoms occur:
- High fever
- Signs of infection like redness, swelling, and drainage from the incision site.
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