FLEXOR TO EXTENSOR TENDON TRANSFERS IN THE HAND

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 averaged 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%).