Restoration of power pinch

Abstract

Loss of the ulnar innervated intrinsic musculature resulting in weakness of pinch constitutes a significant functional deficit. Twenty-two patients with ulnar intrinsic paralysis underwent transfer of the ring flexor superficialis tendon across the palm, stimulating the course of the adductor pollicis. Preoperative pinch loss averaged 14.3 pounds, reducing pinch power to 30% of the opposite, normal hand. The transfer achieved an average increase of pinch of 8.3 pounds, restoring pinch to 71% of the opposite, uninvolved hand.