What is myotomy?

Myotomy is a surgical procedure in which a muscle or muscles are cut to relieve tightness or contracture. It is often performed to treat conditions such as spasticity, where the muscles are too stiff or tight, or to improve range of motion in a joint.

During a myotomy, the surgeon makes an incision in the skin and then cuts the affected muscle or muscles. The cut is usually made in the middle of the muscle belly, but it can also be made at the tendon attachment or at the muscle's origin.

Myotomy can be performed on a variety of muscles, including the:

* Hamstrings

* Quadriceps

* Calf muscles

* Hip flexors

* Shoulder muscles

* Neck muscles

The procedure can be performed on an outpatient basis, or it may require a short hospital stay. The recovery time varies depending on the extent of the surgery, but it is typically around four to six weeks.

Myotomy is a safe and effective procedure, but it does have some risks, such as:

* Bleeding

* Infection

* Nerve damage

* Scarring

However, these risks are rare and the benefits of myotomy often outweigh the risks.