The clinical research of flexor digitorum superiicialis muscle branch of the median nerve to repair the hand intrinsic muscle branch of the ulnar nerve

Abstract

Objective To investigate the clinical application of flexor digitorum superiicialis muscle branch of the median nerve to repair the hand intrinsic muscle branch of the ulnar nerve. Methods From June, 2006 to June, .2010, 7 volunteers of level ulanr never pure injuries near to the elbow were treated by transferring flexor digitorum superiicialis muscle branch of the median nerve to the hand intrinsic muscle branch of the ulnar nerve.The follow-up period ranged from 3 months to 5.5 years, with an average of 1.5 years..The shape and the musle power of hand intrinsic musle, the sensory fuction of ulnar nerve, and the results of EMG after operation were observed. Results The pinkie finger sensory recovery time was about 1.5 years, .and two-point discrimination test showed that the sensory of the wounded hand recovered effectively, .but was significantly worse than the healthy side. And the other sesory recover well. 7 months later, the motion relevant to ulnar nerve began to recover. The adduction and abduction functions of little finger recovered firstly. The ring, middle and index finger followed. Finally, the function of adductor muscle recovered. 1.5 years later, the intrinsic muscle strength grade was about 2-4, paper clip test experiment (-) , Froment sign (-) . There were no obvious claw hand deformity in 6 cases, and the atrophy with varying degrees of adductor muscle occurred in 3 cases. Conclusion Flexor digitorum superiicialis muscle branch of the median nerve transfer to the hand intrinsic muscle branch of the ulnar nerve combined with functional exercise can effectively treated and slow down the intrinsic muscles atrophy. Key words: Ulnar nerve, hand intrinsic muscle branch; Median nerve, flexor digitorum superiicialis muscle branch; Hand intrinsic muscle; Muscular atrophy