Tendon repair is surgery done to treat a torn or otherwise damaged tendon. Tendons are the soft, band-like tissues that connect muscles to bone. When the muscles contract, the tendons pull the bones and cause them to move.

When tendon damage occurs, movement may be seriously limited in the area of the damage. The damaged area may feel numb, weak, or painful.

Tendon repair surgery may be useful for patients who have tendon injuries that are making it difficult for them to move, or are very painful.

Tendon repair is done to bring back normal movement after a tendon injury. Tendon injury may occur anywhere in the body where there are tendons.

Generally, during tendon repair a surgeon will:

1. make one or more small incisions (cuts) in the skin over the damaged tendon

2. sew the torn ends of the tendon together

3. check the surrounding tissue to make sure no other injuries have occurred, such as injury to the blood vessels or nerves

4. close the incision, often with stitches

5. cover the area with sterile bandages or dressings