What is a FHL transfer?
What is a FHL transfer?
A Flexor Hallucis Longus Tendon transfer is used to aid in chronic Achilles tendonopathy. An FHL transfer is performed to augment an Achilles reconstruction utilizing Arthrex Tenodesis Screw™ technology. The tendon is excised either medially or laterally and transferred into a bone tunnel in the calcaneus bone.
Why do FHL tendons transfer?
Flexor hallucis longus (FHL) tendon transfer aims to relieve pain and restore function after Achilles tendon rupture in patients with Achilles tendinopathy. The choice of operative treatment for chronic Achilles tendon disease is based on the size of the tendon rupture.
What is a FHL tendon?
The flexor hallucis longus (FHL) tendon extends from the calf muscle, past the side of the ankle, and all the way to the big toe. This tendon helps you flex your big toe and stand on the tips of your toes. Overuse of this tendon can cause inflammation, called tendonitis.
How long does FHL tendonitis take to heal?
Recovery from FHL surgery may take over three months. One of the essential components of treatment is that the patient should take relative rest from any activity that elicits their pain until its symptom-free (crutches may be required in some cases).
How long after Achilles rupture Should I have surgery?
If you sit at work, you can go back in 1 to 2 weeks. If you’re on your feet at work, you may need 6 to 8 weeks before you can go back. Your total recovery time can be up to 6 months….
| Results of treatment | With surgery to repair | With immobilization (no surgery) |
|---|---|---|
| Deep wound infection | 2 to 3 out of 100 | 0 out of 100 |
How successful is Achilles tendon surgery?
Both open and percutaneous surgeries are successful. More than 80 out of 100 people who have surgery for an Achilles tendon rupture are able to return to all the activities they did before the injury, including returning to sports.
How is FHL treated?
Treatment of tenosynovitis of the FHL involves resting the area and reducing the inflammation with ice and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications. Physical therapy can also help reduce inflammation with stretching, strengthening, massage, ultrasound and other modalities.
How do I strengthen my FHL tendon?
Strengthening. A common exercise for foot strength is performed using a towel. Ask the patient to sit and place a towel under their foot, then ask the patient to grip the towel with their great toe thereby moving the towel along the floor. The muscle can be strengthened by utilising its role in balance.
How long after Achilles surgery can I return to work?
If you sit at work, you may be able to go back in 1 to 2 weeks. But if you are on your feet at work, it may take 6 to 8 weeks. If you are very physically active in your job, it may take 3 to 6 months.
