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Double free muscle transfer improves function in patients with traumatic brachial plexus injury
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Patients with traumatic brachial plexus injury who underwent a double free muscle transfer for reconstruction were able to use the operative hand to perform activities in conjunction with the contralateral hand, according to results of this study.
“The present study showed that the mean disability scores improved significantly following reconstruction with the double free muscle transfer procedure,” the researchers wrote in the study.
The researchers analyzed preoperative and postoperative DASH and SF-36 scores of patients who underwent the procedure between 2002 and 2008 with a minimum 2-year follow-up after the second free transfer, according to the abstract. They also used a second questionnaire to gather information on pain, satisfaction, job status and use of the operative hand.
The mean range of motion for shoulder flexion was 25°. The mean ROM was 31° for shoulder abduction, 62° for the shoulder rotation arc, and –18° for shoulder external rotation, according to the abstract. For elbow flexion and extension, the mean ROM was 119° and –33°, respectively. Mean finger ROM in the patients was 46° and the mean hook grip strength was 4 kg.
“The majority of patients worked but had changed their type of work, used the reconstructed hand in activities of daily living that required both hands, and were satisfied with the procedure,” the researchers wrote.
Disclosure: The authors have no relevant financial disclosures.
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