title: Flexor to extensor tendon transfers in the hand.
abstract: We reviewed 49 cases of flexor to extensor tendon transfer following injury to the radial nerve (22) or brachial plexus (27). Post-operative follow-up average 5.6 years (0.5-12.5). Function was improved in 84% (41) of patients. 16% (8) reported no improvement; of these, four (50%) had associated vascular injuries. In those with improvement, impaired coordination and dexterity were reported by 79% (15 of 19) of the plexus injuries and in 64% (14 of 22) of the radial nerve palsies. Premature fatigue was noted by 89% (17 of 19) of plexus injuries and in 82% (18 of 22) of radial nerve palsies. The power of wrist extension averaged 22% of the contralateral side (8% to 80%), power of digital extension was 31% (5% to 130%), and power grip was reduced to 40% (5% to 86%).
authors.affiliation: Peripheral Nerve Injuries Unit, Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital Trust, Stanmore, London, UK.
authors.forename: W J
authors.initials: WJ
authors.lastname: Dunnet
authors.forename: P L
authors.initials: PL
authors.lastname: Housden
authors.forename: R
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Birch
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D001917:Brachial Plexus / Q000293:injuries / Q000601:surgery*; D005260:Female; D005384:Finger Joint / Q000098:blood supply / Q000294:innervation* / Q000503:physiopathology; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D018737:Hand Strength; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011826:Radial Nerve / Q000293:injuries / Q000601:surgery; D016059:Range of Motion, Articular; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D013709:Tendon Transfer / Q000379:methods*; D013997:Time Factors; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014955:Wrist Joint / Q000098:blood supply / Q000294:innervation* / Q000503:physiopathology