Tendon Transfers for Peripheral Nerve Palsies

Scott N Loewenstein; Joshua M Adkinson

doi:10.1016/j.cps.2019.02.004

Tendon Transfers for Peripheral Nerve Palsies

Clin Plast Surg. 2019 Jul;46(3):307-315. doi: 10.1016/j.cps.2019.02.004. Epub 2019 Apr 12.

Authors

Scott N Loewenstein¹, Joshua M Adkinson²

Affiliations

¹ Division of Plastic Surgery, Indiana University School of Medicine, 545 Barnhill Drive, Emerson Hall, Suite 232, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA.
² Division of Plastic Surgery, Indiana University School of Medicine, 545 Barnhill Drive, Emerson Hall, Suite 232, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA. Electronic address: jadkinso@iu.edu.

PMID: 31103075
DOI: 10.1016/j.cps.2019.02.004

Abstract

Recovery after an upper extremity peripheral nerve injury varies depending on multiple factors. In patients with poor functional recovery, tendon transfers may be indicated. The decision to perform an early tendon transfer at the time of nerve repair or before expected reinnervation is considered on a case-by-case basis. There are a multitude of potential tendon transfer options, the choices of which depend on remaining function, specific deficits, and surgeon experience and preferences. A thoughtful approach to reconstruction can lead to a substantial functional improvement with minimal donor site morbidity.

Keywords: Median neuropathy; Peripheral nerve; Radial neuropathy; Tendon transfer; Ulnar neuropathy.

Publication types

Review

MeSH terms

Humans
Median Neuropathy / surgery*
Neurosurgical Procedures / methods*
Peripheral Nerve Injuries / surgery*
Radial Neuropathy / surgery*
Recovery of Function
Tendon Transfer / methods*
Ulnar Neuropathies / surgery*
Upper Extremity / surgery