Tendon Transfer Surgery for Quadriplegics in Grand Rapids, Michigan

Living with quadriplegia can significantly affect independence, especially when arm and hand function are limited. In the Grand Rapids, Michigan area, specialized procedures like tendon transfer surgery can help some people with quadriplegia regain useful movement and greater control of their upper limbs.

This guide explains what tendon transfer surgery is, how it works, and where Grand Rapids residents can find support and care.

Understanding Quadriplegia

Quadriplegia (also called tetraplegia) is paralysis that affects both the upper and lower limbs. It usually results from a spinal cord injury in the neck (cervical spine), which disrupts messages from the brain to the body, affecting movement and sensation.

People with quadriplegia often:

  • Have limited or no movement in their hands and arms
  • Need help with daily activities like eating, bathing, dressing, and writing
  • Rely on family members, caregivers, or home health aides

In Michigan and the Grand Rapids region, common causes of spinal cord injuries that can lead to quadriplegia include:

  • Vehicle crashes (car, truck, motorcycle, bicycle)
  • Sports and diving injuries (especially in lakes and pools)
  • Work-related falls or trauma
  • Falls on ice or snow during West Michigan’s long, icy winters

What Is Tendon Transfer Surgery?

Goal of Tendon Transfer Surgery

Tendon transfer surgery (TTS) is a highly specialized procedure designed to:

  • Improve control of the elbow, wrist, and hand
  • Restore or enhance grasp and pinch function
  • Increase independence in daily activities

In Grand Rapids, tendon transfer surgery for quadriplegia is typically performed by fellowship-trained hand surgeons, orthopedic surgeons, or plastic and reconstructive surgeons with experience in upper extremity and nerve surgery. These specialists may practice at major health systems such as:

  • Spectrum Health (Corewell Health) in Grand Rapids
  • Trinity Health Grand Rapids
  • University of Michigan Health-West (Metro Health)
  • Mercy Health facilities in West Michigan

How Tendon Transfer Works

Tendon transfer surgery uses “spare” muscles that still have voluntary control and strength. These muscles are re-routed and attached to tendons that previously belonged to paralyzed muscles. The brain then “re-trains” these muscles to perform new functions.

Key points:

  • No new muscles are added to the body
  • Working muscles are redirected to take over the job of non-working muscles
  • The goal is to improve function, not cure the spinal cord injury

Elbow Tendon Transfer Surgery

Most people with quadriplegia retain some shoulder movement. This can be used to help restore elbow function.

How Elbow TTS Is Done

During elbow tendon transfer surgery:

  • Part of the deltoid muscle (a large shoulder muscle) is detached
  • It is connected to the elbow area using a tendon graft or synthetic material (such as Dacron)
  • This transfer allows the patient to straighten the elbow, reproducing the function of the triceps muscle

Benefits of Elbow Tendon Transfer

Improved elbow extension can:

  • Make transfers (bed to wheelchair, wheelchair to toilet, car transfers) easier and safer
  • Improve the ability to propel a manual wheelchair
  • Help with reaching for objects at home, work, or school
  • Potentially support a return to driving with adaptive controls

For Grand Rapids residents, this can be especially helpful during winter when bulkier clothing, ice, and snow make mobility more challenging.

Wrist and Hand Tendon Transfer Surgery

Regaining hand and wrist function can be life-changing for people with quadriplegia.

How Wrist and Hand TTS Works

During wrist and hand tendon transfer surgery:

  • “Spare” forearm muscles that still have voluntary movement and strength are identified
  • These muscles are re-routed and attached to the tendons that move the wrist, fingers, and thumb

Depending on how many muscles are available and their strength, surgeons may be able to restore:

  • Grasp (closing the hand around an object)
  • Pinch (holding objects between the thumb and fingers)
  • Improved wrist control and stability

Everyday Activities That May Improve

A functional grasp and pinch can help people with quadriplegia in Grand Rapids perform daily tasks with more independence, such as:

  • Eating and drinking
  • Brushing teeth and shaving
  • Using a smartphone or tablet
  • Writing or signing documents
  • Answering the phone
  • Managing clothing, zippers, and simple household tasks

With successful tendon transfer surgery, many people can reduce their reliance on splints or adaptive devices, or use them more effectively.

Other Conditions Treated With Tendon Transfer

While tendon transfer surgery is often used after spinal cord injury, it can also help with:

  • Spasticity and muscle imbalance after spinal cord injury
  • Contractures and deformities of the upper limb
  • Stroke-related weakness
  • Brachial plexus injuries
  • Cerebral palsy affecting the arms and hands

Surgeons may:

  • Release tight muscles
  • Lengthen or stretch muscles
  • Re-route tendons to improve alignment, function, or position of the limb

Recovery, Rehabilitation, and Support in Grand Rapids

Hospital Stay and Early Recovery

Tendon transfer surgery is considered elective surgery. In West Michigan, it is typically performed at major hospital centers with specialized rehabilitation services, such as:

  • Spectrum Health Butterworth Hospital or Blodgett Hospital
  • Trinity Health Grand Rapids Hospital
  • University of Michigan Health-West (Metro Health)

Typical course:

  • Hospital admission for several days after surgery
  • Arm and hand are usually immobilized in a cast or splint initially
  • Pain and swelling are managed with medication and positioning

Rehabilitation and Therapy

Most of the rehabilitation happens after you leave the hospital, often closer to home:

  • Outpatient occupational therapy and physical therapy in Grand Rapids or surrounding communities
  • Home exercise programs taught by therapists
  • Training for family members and caregivers on safe handling and support

Local resources that may be involved:

  • Spectrum Health Rehabilitation services
  • Trinity Health outpatient rehab clinics
  • Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospital in Grand Rapids (a major regional rehab center)
  • Independent occupational and physical therapy clinics across Kent County

Rehabilitation focuses on:

  • Protecting the surgical repair while it heals
  • Gradually increasing movement and strength
  • Re-training the brain to use muscles in their new roles
  • Practicing daily tasks (feeding, grooming, transfers, wheelchair skills)

Temporary Increased Dependence

After tendon transfer surgery, there is usually a period of reduced mobility and limited use of the operated arm. This can be frustrating, especially for people in Grand Rapids who already rely on caregivers.

Important points:

  • Increased dependence is usually temporary
  • Extra help from family, caregivers, or home health aides is often needed
  • Planning ahead for transportation, home access (especially in winter), and personal care is essential

Tendon transfer surgery does not interfere with other spinal cord injury treatments or technologies, such as:

  • Spasticity management (medications, injections)
  • Bracing and splinting
  • Wheelchair seating and positioning
  • Ongoing physical and occupational therapy

Insurance, Costs, and Financial Support in Michigan

In Michigan, coverage for tendon transfer surgery and rehabilitation may come from:

  • Private health insurance plans
  • Medicare or Medicaid
  • Auto insurance (for vehicle-related spinal cord injuries)
  • Workers’ compensation (for work-related injuries)

These may help pay for:

  • Surgery and hospital stay
  • Outpatient therapy
  • Adaptive equipment (splints, wheelchairs, environmental controls)
  • Personal care assistance, in some cases

Grand Rapids residents can also seek guidance from:

  • Hospital social workers and case managers
  • Rehabilitation counselors at Mary Free Bed or local rehab centers
  • Kent County Health Department for public health resources and disability services referrals

Who Is a Candidate for Tendon Transfer Surgery?

Not everyone with quadriplegia will benefit from tendon transfer surgery. A specialized evaluation is essential.

You may be a candidate if:

  • You have stable spinal cord injury (usually at least 6–12 months post-injury)
  • You have some preserved shoulder or forearm muscle function
  • Your skin and joints are in good condition (no severe contractures)
  • You are motivated to participate in rehabilitation and therapy
  • You understand the risks, benefits, and realistic goals of surgery

If you are unsure about whether tendon transfer surgery is right for you, ask for a referral to a specialist in upper extremity reconstruction for spinal cord injury.

The decision to proceed with surgery is always up to the individual, after receiving clear and accurate information.

Local Resources for Quadriplegia and Spinal Cord Injury in Grand Rapids

If you or a loved one is living with quadriplegia in the Grand Rapids area, the following resources may help you explore tendon transfer surgery and other options:

Medical and Rehabilitation Providers

  • Spectrum Health / Corewell Health – Grand Rapids
    Orthopedic, plastic, and hand surgery; inpatient and outpatient rehab services.

  • Trinity Health Grand Rapids
    Surgical specialists, rehabilitation therapy, and outpatient clinics.

  • Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospital (Grand Rapids)
    One of the largest rehab hospitals in the region, with specialized spinal cord injury programs and upper extremity rehabilitation.

  • University of Michigan Health-West (Metro Health)
    Orthopedic and plastic surgery, physical medicine and rehabilitation.

Public Health and Community Support

  • Kent County Health Department
    Offers public health programs, disability resources, and referrals to community services.
    Website: accesskent.com/Health

  • Grand Rapids Public Health / City of Grand Rapids
    Local health initiatives and community support information.

  • Michigan Spinal Cord Injury Association & regional support groups
    Peer support, education, and advocacy for individuals with spinal cord injury.

  • Disability Network or Center for Independent Living (West Michigan)
    Independent living skills, advocacy, and peer support.

Search phrases like “tendon transfer surgery Grand Rapids MI”, “quadriplegia hand surgery Spectrum Health”, or “spinal cord injury rehab Grand Rapids” to find up-to-date local providers and programs.

Key Points to Remember

  • Tendon transfer surgery can help some people with quadriplegia in Grand Rapids, Michigan regain useful movement in the elbow, wrist, and hand.
  • The surgery uses existing, working muscles to take over the function of paralyzed muscles.
  • Benefits may include improved grasp, pinch, elbow extension, and greater independence in daily activities.
  • Recovery involves a short hospital stay and extensive outpatient rehabilitation, often supported by family and local therapists.
  • The procedure is elective and not right for everyone; a specialized assessment is essential.
  • Local hospitals and rehabilitation centers in Grand Rapids, along with public health and community organizations, can help you explore your options and support your recovery.

If you live in or near Grand Rapids and are considering tendon transfer surgery, talk with your primary care provider, spinal cord injury specialist, or rehabilitation physician about a referral to an experienced upper extremity surgeon.