Performed by Dr. Venkat Ram Thyalapalli at Dr Venkatram Thyalapalli
Arthrogryposis deformity correction is a surgical procedure to improve joint movement and alignment in children born with arthrogryposis multiplex congenita. The procedure aims to release tight tissues, reposition joints, and improve function in affected limbs. Dr Venkatram Thyalapalli evaluates each child individually to determine which joints may benefit from surgical correction and the appropriate timing for intervention.
We believe in honest, upfront disclosure so you can make an informed decision.
A step-by-step look at what happens during this procedure.
After the child is under general anaesthesia, incisions are made over the affected joints to access the tight structures causing the contracture.
Tight muscles, tendons, ligaments, and joint capsules are carefully released or lengthened to allow the joint to move through a better range.
The joint is moved into a more functional position. In some cases, bones may be cut and realigned if there is bony deformity contributing to the problem.
Pins, wires, or external fixators may be used to hold bones and joints in the corrected position while healing occurs.
Incisions are closed with sutures, and casts or splints are applied to protect the limb and maintain the correction during early healing.
A structured, patient-first approach from first consultation to full recovery.
Dr Venkatram Thyalapalli examines the child, reviews imaging studies, and discusses with the family which joints will benefit most from correction and the sequence of treatment if multiple limbs are involved.
The procedure is performed with careful attention to releasing tight structures while protecting nerves and blood vessels, and achieving stable positioning of the corrected joints.
After surgery, the child is monitored in hospital, pain is managed, and casts or splints are checked. Instructions are provided for wound care and protecting the limb.
Before discharge, a therapy plan is discussed to begin gentle movement and strengthening once initial healing allows, with regular follow-up visits to monitor progress and adjust treatment.
What to expect at each stage of your recovery journey.
The first weeks involve protecting the surgical site in a cast or splint, managing pain, and allowing soft tissues to heal. Movement is limited during this period to prevent stress on the correction.
Once the cast is removed or adjusted, guided physiotherapy and occupational therapy begin to gently restore movement, strengthen muscles, and teach the child new movement patterns. This phase lasts several months.
Over the following year, the child continues therapy and adapts to improved joint position. Further procedures on other limbs may be planned in stages. Regular follow-up monitors growth and function.
Surgery aims to place joints in a more functional alignment, which may make self-care activities, sitting, standing, or walking easier. The degree of improvement varies based on the severity of the original contracture and the child's overall condition.
Release of tight tissues can allow the joint to move through a greater arc, though many children will still have some limitation compared to typical movement. Stiffness may persist or recur.
Arthrogryposis deformity correction does not cure the underlying condition, and muscle weakness often remains. Some children require additional surgeries as they grow, and not all functional goals can be achieved through surgery alone.
Long-term physiotherapy and occupational therapy are essential to maintain gains and develop skills. Surgery is one part of a comprehensive treatment plan, not a standalone solution.
The right choice depends on your diagnosis, risks and circumstances — discussed with you at your consultation.
Repeated application of casts or splints over weeks to months can gradually stretch tight tissues and improve joint position without surgery. This is often tried first, especially in younger infants, and may be sufficient for milder contractures.
Ongoing therapy to work within the available movement, strengthen muscles, and teach adaptive techniques for daily tasks may be chosen when contractures are less severe or surgical risks are high. This remains important regardless of whether surgery is done.
In some situations, families and the clinical team may decide to monitor the child's progress without immediate intervention and use braces, walkers, or adaptive equipment to support function. The choice depends on the child's age, overall condition, and family priorities.
Let's clear up some of the most common myths about arthrogryposis deformity correction.
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Consult Venkat Ram Thyalapalli for Arthrogryposis Deformity Correction at any of these 2 centres — pick the one nearest you.
