ID 397 – EMG and clinical outcome of Leechavenvong’s transfer, preliminary results

Abstract

Purpose The aim of the study is to analyse the results of Leechavenvong’s transfer – long head triceps branch of radial nerve to axillary nerve neurotization. Matherial and methods Group of 5 patients (4 men, 1 woman, mean age 44, mean time from injury to surgery 5 months), who underwent Leechavenvong’s transfer in last two years was analysed. The main inclusion criterium was irreparable axillary nerve injury (simple or as a part of brachial plexus injury) with complete dennervation in deltoid muscle preoperatively. We assessed motor recovery according to MRC Scoring system and EMG reinnervation signs every 3 months after surgery. We set the total follow-up time for 18 months. Results All patients have evidence of partial muscle reinnervation on electrodiagnostic studies after 6 months. There is no impairment of the triceps brachii function. Conclusion Our preliminary results in small group show that long head triceps branch of radial to axillary nerve neurotization can successfully provide reinnervation. We found better outcome by patients with the first signs of reinnervation in 3 months after surgery.