Transposition of local muscles to restore elbow flexion in brachial plexus palsy

Abstract

Between 1994 and 2001, triceps to biceps transfers were done in 10 men and a transfer of the forearm flexors and extensors (Steindler procedure) in nine. All had suffered from a post-traumatic lesion of their brachial plexus, resulting in loss of elbow flexion. Their mean age at the time of the original accident was 27 years (range 16–50 years) and at the time of muscle transfer 35 years (range 22–56 years), with a mean observation period of 20 months (range 6–51 months). In 16 patients, a neurosurgical procedure had been performed after the trauma, and in 22 patients other reconstructive operations had been done. Transfer of the forearm flexors and extensors resulted in active elbow flexion with a mean of 94° (range 70–130°). After triceps to biceps transposition a mean of 109° (range 70–140°) was reached. A mean deficit of passive extension of 12° (range 0–30°) remained after the Steindler procedure, and of 5° (range 0–10°) after triceps to biceps transposition. Two complications occurred with the Steindler procedure. The transfer of the triceps muscle to the tendon of the biceps and the transfer of the forearm flexors or extensors on loss of elbow flexion, therefore, resulted in adequate movement and strength. Both procedures involve operating close to the elbow joint and had minimal complications. The triceps to biceps transfer is particularly suitable for co-contraction of triceps and biceps.