Role of muscle transfers and tendon transfers in birth brachial plexus injury

Abstract

Secondary surgeries for the treatment of birth brachial plexus injury sequelae have witnessed a renaissance since the late 1990s. Glenohumeral malformation is a well-studied phenomenon now. Treatment paradigms are aimed at recreating the anatomy as well as restoring missing functions needed for activities of daily living. Extraarticular procedures for treating shoulder sequelae using powerful motors like the teres major or latissimus dorsi muscle dominate the scene in combination with adductor and internal rotator cuff release, with reduction of the glenohumeral joint. Other secondary procedures for the elbow and hand also are described.