title: The Mid-Term Changes of Pulmonary Function Tests After Phrenic Nerve Transfer.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  In the restoration of elbow flexion, the phrenic nerve has proven to be a good donor, but considering the role of the phrenic nerve in respiratory function, we cannot disregard the potential dangers of this method.
  
  
  OBJECTIVE
  In the current study, we reviewed the results of pulmonary function tests (PFT) in four patients who underwent phrenic nerve transfer.
  
  
  METHODS
  We reviewed the results of serial spirometry tests, which were performed before and after phrenic nerve transfer surgery.
  
  
  RESULTS
  All patients regained Biceps power to M3 strength or above. None of our patients experienced pulmonary problems or respiratory complaints, but a significant reduction of spirometric parameters occurred after surgery.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  This study highlights the close link between the role of the phrenic nerve and pulmonary function, such that the use of this nerve as a transfer donor leads to spirometric impairments.
authors.affiliation: Department of Reconstructive Surgery, Shahid Behesti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IR Iran.
authors.forename: Masoud
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Yavari
authors.affiliation: Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shahid Behesti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IR Iran.
authors.forename: Seyed Esmail
authors.initials: SE
authors.lastname: Hassanpour
authors.affiliation: Department of Reconstructive Surgery, Shahid Behesti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IR Iran.
authors.forename: Mohammad
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Khodayari
keywords: Elbow; Phrenic Nerve Transfer; Pulmonary Function Tests