What is foot drop?
Foot drop is a condition characterized by difficulty in lifting the front part of the foot, which can cause the foot to drag on the ground while walking.
What causes foot drop?
It is often caused by weakness or paralysis of the muscles involved in lifting the foot, nerve injury, brain or spinal disorders, or muscle disorders.
How does the Targeted Nerve Transfer (TNT) procedure work?
TNT involves rerouting a working nerve from an adjacent muscle to the damaged nerve in the affected muscle, creating a new pathway for nerve signals to enable foot movement.
Who is eligible for the TNT surgery?
Patients with foot drop due to peripheral nerve injury or muscle paralysis may be candidates for TNT, but a full evaluation is required to determine suitability.
How long does the TNT surgery take, and is it invasive?
The duration of the surgery varies, but it typically lasts a few hours and is considered minimally invasive with the focus on nerve rerouting.
What are the success rates for TNT?
While success rates can vary, many patients experience significant improvements in mobility and reducing symptoms associated with foot drop.
Are there any risks associated with TNT surgery?
As with any surgical procedure, risks are involved, including infection, nerve damage, or lack of improvement in foot drop symptoms, but these are relatively rare.
What can I expect during recovery from TNT surgery?
Recovery usually includes several weeks to months of rehabilitation with physical therapy to maximize movement and retrain the brain-muscle connections.
When can I return to normal activities after TNT surgery?
Most patients are able to gradually return to normal activities within six months post-surgery, depending on individual recovery and adherence to rehabilitation.
DISCLAIMER
Please be advised that the information provided here by Pulse Healthcare System, including but not limited to descriptions of surgical procedures, recovery expectations, and frequently asked questions, is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice. Every individual’s circumstance is unique, and the content herein is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment and before undertaking a new health care regimen. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read here.
