What Is the Cost of Tendon Transfer in India?
The cost of tendon transfer in India typically ranges from $500 to $6,000 USD, depending on the hospital, city, and type of procedure.
A tendon transfer moves a working tendon from its normal attachment to a new one, so it can take over the job of a tendon or muscle that no longer works. It is commonly used in the hand and wrist. The cost depends on:
- Which function is being restored: for example straightening the thumb or extending the wrist.
- Number of tendons transferred
- Anaesthesia: regional or general.
- Splints and hand therapy
Why a Transfer Is Needed
The British Society for Surgery of the Hand (BSSH) uses the example of rupture of the thumb's extensor tendon (EPL), which straightens the end joint of the thumb. This tendon can rupture after a wrist fracture or in rheumatoid arthritis.
BSSH explains that direct repair is usually not possible because the tendon ends have frayed. Instead, the options are a tendon graft placed between the two ends or a tendon transfer. The transfer most often uses one of the two extensor tendons that serve the index finger.
Our Services for Tendon Transfer in India
Transparent, professional support—without the hassles.
Book Doctor Appointment
Choose a specialist and schedule a convenient consultation.
Video or In-person Consultation
Consult remotely or meet your doctor directly at the hospital.
Compare Cost Estimates
Review transparent estimates from suitable hospitals.
Hospitalisation Support
Get coordinated assistance throughout your hospital stay.
What Surgery and Recovery Involve
Surgery is usually not urgent unless other tendons are at risk, according to BSSH. After the operation:
- Splint: typically worn for three to six weeks.
- Hand therapy: teaches the brain to use the transferred tendon for its new job.
- Gradual return to use: following the programme set by the surgeon and therapist.
Other Uses of Tendon Transfer
Tendon transfers are also used after nerve injuries, when muscles lose their nerve supply and cannot work, and in some neurological conditions. The surgeon chooses a donor tendon whose loss will cause little weakness.
Risks include stiffness, adhesions (tendons sticking), loosening or rupture of the transfer, infection and incomplete recovery of function. Your surgeon will discuss the expected result for your situation.
Top Doctors in India
Recommended Doctors for Tendon Transfer

Dr Gaurav Rastogi
Senior Consultant
Hand and Wrist SpecialistManipal Hospitals Dwarka, Delhi
Top Hospitals in India
Recommended Hospitals for Tendon Transfer
Frequently Asked Questions Related to Tendon Transfer Cost in India
It is surgery that moves a working tendon to a new attachment so it can perform a lost function. It is often used when a tendon cannot be repaired directly.
After some ruptures, the tendon ends are frayed and cannot be joined, as BSSH explains for thumb extensor ruptures. A transfer or graft is then used instead.
BSSH says the transfer most often uses one of the two extensor tendons to the index finger. The index finger can still straighten using the other tendon.
Many people regain useful function, though results depend on the cause and on hand therapy. Your surgeon will explain realistic expectations.
Typically three to six weeks, following your surgeon's and therapist's programme.
There is some pain after surgery, controlled with painkillers and elevation. It usually eases over the first couple of weeks.
The cost of tendon transfer in India typically ranges from $500 to $6,000 USD, depending on the hospital, city, and type of procedure.
For thumb extensor rupture, BSSH says surgery is usually not urgent unless other tendons are at risk.
Yes. Therapy helps you learn to use the moved tendon for its new job and prevents stiffness.
Risks include stiffness, tendons sticking, the transfer loosening or rupturing, infection and incomplete recovery of function.




























