Surgery for Hamstring Injuries

Surgery is not frequently required for hamstring injuries, and is usually reserved for complete tears or avulsion fractures (reattach the muscle to the bone).

An avulsion repair will reattach the torn hamstring tendon to the pelvis. This surgery involves making an incision over the spot where the hamstring normally attaches to the ischial tuberosity on the pelvis bone. The surgeon then inserts forceps into the incision to grab the loose part of the tendon that broke away from the bone and pulls it back to its original location. Any scar tissue on the loose end of the tendon is removed, and the surface of the ischial tuberosity is shaved down. Large staples or sutures are then used to reconnect the tendon to the bone.

A muscle repair will fix a complete tear in the hamstring muscle. This surgery involves making an incision on the back of the thigh over the torn hamstring and sewing or reattaching the 2 torn ends together.

Neurolysis of the sciatic nerve involves breaking up adhesions (scar tissue) to free the nerve and relieve the pressure and pain from inflammation. Radio frequency, heat, or chemical injection, have also been used.

Surgery enforces a mandatory rest period, which is one of the main treatment recommendations for hamstring injuries. Keep in mind the longer you have your symptoms prior to surgery, the longer it will take to recuperate. If you return to your activities too soon, you could cause permanent damage. You want to ensure the strength, flexibility and stability of your hamstring muscles, before taking on too much.