Injuries to nerves and tendons can be devastating. They affect not only physical function but also independence and quality of life. Simple actions such as holding a cup, walking, writing, or feeling touch can become difficult or impossible. Fortunately, with today’s advancements in microsurgery, specialised nerve and tendon repair procedures can restore function and sensation to an astonishing degree.
In Thrissur, Dr Vinu Roy, a renowned plastic and reconstructive surgeon, stands at the forefront of this specialised field. With extensive experience in microsurgical reconstruction and trauma care, he provides comprehensive treatment for patients suffering from nerve injuries, tendon lacerations, and complex hand trauma.
Understanding Nerves and Tendons
To appreciate the importance of repair, it’s vital to understand what these structures do:
Tendons are tough, fibrous cords that connect muscles to bones. When you move your fingers, bend your wrist, or flex your ankle, tendons are doing the work.
Nerves are like electrical cables that transmit messages between your brain and muscles. They control both voluntary movements (like grasping) and sensations (like touch or temperature).
When either is injured, the communication between brain and body is disrupted. This leads to loss of movement, numbness, weakness, or even deformity. Immediate medical attention from a specialist is crucial for optimal recovery.
Causes of Nerve and Tendon Injuries
Nerve and tendon injuries can result from a variety of situations, including:
Accidents or trauma: Sharp cuts, crush injuries, machinery accidents, or road traffic collisions.
Sports injuries: Sudden overstretching or tearing of tendons, especially in hand, wrist, and ankle regions.
Fractures or dislocations: Bones and joints that shift or break can stretch, compress, or sever nerves.
Surgical complications: Sometimes, nerves or tendons can be accidentally damaged during unrelated procedures.
Chronic conditions: Diabetes or long-term inflammation may weaken these structures, increasing vulnerability.
Whatever the cause, early diagnosis and appropriate repair by a reconstructive surgeon can significantly improve long-term function.
Dr Vinu Roy – Trusted Specialist for Nerve and Tendon Repair in Thrissur
Dr Vinu Roy is a highly skilled plastic, reconstructive, and microsurgery expert based in Thrissur. His training and surgical practice focus on complex trauma management, hand surgery, and nerve-tendon reconstruction.
His expertise lies in performing delicate microsurgical procedures that restore continuity of nerves and tendons, allowing patients to regain strength, coordination, and sensation. Over the years, he has helped countless patients recover from life-altering injuries, combining surgical precision with compassionate care.
Key aspects of his practice include:
Advanced microsurgical repair techniques under high-powered microscopes.
Comprehensive trauma reconstruction for hand, wrist, and upper/lower limbs.
Functional recovery programs combining surgery, physiotherapy, and long-term monitoring.
Patient-centric approach with transparent guidance on expectations and outcomes.
Common Injuries Treated
| Type of Injury | Symptoms and Impact | Typical Repair Performed |
|---|---|---|
| Tendon Laceration | Inability to move fingers/toes, weakness, deformity | Direct tendon repair or grafting with early motion therapy |
| Nerve Transection | Loss of sensation, muscle paralysis, pain | Microsurgical nerve repair or grafting using fine sutures |
| Crush Injuries | Severe swelling, tissue loss, nerve and tendon rupture | Combined reconstructive surgery with soft tissue coverage |
| Chronic Tendon Rupture | Weakness, scarring, stiffness, delayed presentation | Tendon transfer or staged tendon reconstruction |
| Nerve Compression (e.g., Carpal Tunnel) | Numbness, tingling, hand weakness | Nerve decompression and soft tissue release |
| Combined Nerve + Tendon Injury | Severe functional loss, deformity | Multi-stage repair, nerve grafting, and physiotherapy |
Treatment Process: Step-by-Step Care
1. Clinical Evaluation
Every patient undergoes a detailed assessment, including history, mechanism of injury, physical examination, and diagnostic tests such as ultrasound, MRI, or nerve conduction studies. This helps identify the exact site and severity of injury.
2. Surgical Planning
Depending on the nature of the damage, Dr Roy decides on the most suitable procedure — whether it is a primary repair (done immediately after injury) or secondary repair (delayed reconstruction after scar tissue formation). In severe cases, nerve grafts or tendon transfers may be required to restore lost functions.
3. Surgery
During the procedure:
A microscope or magnifying loupes are used for precision.
Damaged ends of the nerve or tendon are carefully aligned and stitched using ultra-fine sutures.
If tissue gaps exist, grafts are taken from other body parts (like sural nerve or palmaris tendon).
For combined injuries, Dr Roy performs both nerve and tendon repair in a single sitting whenever feasible.
4. Post-operative Rehabilitation
After surgery, immobilisation with splints or casts protects the repair. Once healing begins, a structured physiotherapy plan starts to restore movement, flexibility, and strength.
For nerve repairs, recovery takes time — nerves regenerate slowly at about 1 mm per day — so patients are closely monitored over months.
5. Long-Term Recovery
The clinic provides continued support through follow-up visits, scar management, sensory re-education, and coordination with rehabilitation specialists. With commitment to physiotherapy, many patients regain near-normal function.
Advanced Techniques Used by Dr Vinu Roy
Microsurgical Nerve Repair and Grafting using operating microscopes.
Tendon Transfers to substitute for lost muscle or tendon function.
Nerve Transfers in cases of long-standing or high-level injuries.
Free Tissue Transfer (Flaps) for complex trauma involving skin and soft tissue loss.
Scar Tissue Release and Secondary Reconstruction for neglected cases.
Physiotherapy Integration for movement and sensory rehabilitation.
These procedures require meticulous precision, steady hands, and years of experience — qualities that define Dr Vinu Roy’s surgical approach.
Benefits of Timely Nerve and Tendon Repair
Early intervention prevents muscle wasting and joint stiffness.
Reduces risk of permanent nerve damage and chronic pain.
Restores grip strength, fine motor control, and sensation.
Improves appearance and reduces deformity after trauma.
Enhances overall quality of life and ability to perform daily tasks.
Why Choose Dr Vinu Roy for Nerve and Tendon Repair in Thrissur
Extensive Microsurgical Expertise: Years of experience in handling complex hand, nerve, and reconstructive cases.
Comprehensive Care: From emergency trauma management to advanced rehabilitation, all stages are coordinated.
State-of-the-Art Infrastructure: Equipped with modern operating microscopes, micro-instruments, and sterile facilities.
Patient-Centric Philosophy: Every treatment is customised based on injury severity, patient goals, and recovery potential.
High Success Rate: Proven outcomes with restored movement, sensation, and functional improvement.
faq
How soon after injury should I undergo nerve or tendon repair?
As early as possible — ideally within a few days. Early repair offers the best results, preventing scar formation and preserving muscle activity.
Can an old nerve or tendon injury still be repaired?
Yes, secondary or delayed repair is possible, but results may vary. Dr Vinu Roy performs revision surgeries using advanced techniques like grafting and nerve transfers to improve outcomes.
How long does recovery take?
Recovery depends on injury severity, age, and the type of repair. Tendons generally heal in 6–12 weeks, while nerve recovery may take several months for full regeneration.
Is the procedure safe?
Yes. These are standard reconstructive surgeries performed under sterile conditions. Risks such as infection, stiffness, or incomplete recovery are minimal when performed by an experienced surgeon.
Will I regain complete movement and sensation?
Most patients recover good functional movement, though complete restoration depends on the extent of the original injury. Continuous physiotherapy and follow-up play a major role in outcome.
What is physiotherapy’s role in recovery?
Physiotherapy is crucial. It helps prevent stiffness, retrains muscles, improves circulation, and aids sensory recovery.
Conclusion
Nerve and tendon injuries demand expert attention, precise surgical skill, and compassionate post-operative care. In Thrissur, Dr Vinu Roy has established himself as a trusted name for advanced reconstructive and microsurgical procedures. His dedication to restoring function, combined with his experience in trauma and hand surgery, ensures that patients receive world-class treatment close to home.
Whether it’s a sudden injury, a complex trauma, or a delayed case, early evaluation and appropriate surgical intervention can make a life-changing difference.
With expert hands, modern techniques, and patient-focused care, Dr Vinu Roy continues to help individuals reclaim mobility, independence, and confidence — one recovery at a time.
