Elbow Flexion In Patients Research Articles

Bipolar Pedicled Latissimus Dorsi Flap for Soft-Tissue Coverage and Restoration of Elbow Function

Bipolar latissimus dorsi transfer has been considered a viable option for the restoration of elbow flexion in patients with large traumatic defects of the anterior arm compartment. Advantages of bipolar transfer of the latissimus include stabilization of the anterior shoulder joint in addition to recreating the biceps for a direct line of pull in restoring elbow flexion with minimal donor site morbidity. Previous literature in bipolar latissimus transfer has demonstrated good outcomes in elbow flexion against gravity, range of motion, and patient satisfaction. We present a step-by-step demonstration of a bipolar pedicled latissimus dorsi transfer for restoration of elbow function and soft-tissue coverage for large traumatic defects to the anterior compartment of the arm.

Effect of shorter nerve graft and selective motor branch of recipient nerve on nerve transfer surgery for elbow flexion in patients with brachial plexus injury.

The spinal accessory nerve (SAN) is commonly used as a donor nerve for reinnervation of elbow flexors in brachial plexus injury (BPI) reconstruction. However, no study has compared the postoperative outcomes between SAN-to-musculocutaneous nerve (MCN) transfer and SAN-to-nerve to biceps (NTB) transfer. Thus, this study aimed to compare the postoperative time to recovery of elbow flexors between the two groups. A total of 748 patients who underwent surgical treatment for BPI between 1999 and 2017 were retrospectively reviewed. Among them, 233 patients were treated with nerve transfer for elbow flexion. Two techniques were used to harvest the recipient nerve: the standard dissection technique and the proximal dissection technique. The postoperative motor power of elbow flexion was assessed every month for 24 months using the Medical Research Council (MRC) grading system. Survival and Cox regression analyses were used to compare the time to recovery (MRC grade ≥ 3) between the two groups. Of the 233 patients who underwent nerve transfer surgery, there were 162 patients in the MCN group and 71 patients in the NTB group. At 24 months after surgery, the MCN group had a success rate of 74.1%, and the NTB group had a success rate of 81.7% (p = 0.208). When compared with the MCN group, the NTB group had a significantly shorter median time to recovery (19 months vs 21 months, p = 0.013). Only 11.1% of patients in the MCN group regained MRC grade 4 or 5 motor power 24 months after nerve transfer surgery compared with 39.4% patients in the NTB group (p < 0.001). Cox regression analysis showed that the SAN-to-NTB transfer in combination with the proximal dissection technique was the only significant factor affecting time to recovery (HR 2.33, 95% CI 1.46-3.72; p < 0.001). SAN-to-NTB transfer in combination with the proximal dissection technique is the preferred nerve transfer option for restoration of elbow flexion in traumatic pan-plexus palsy.

Outcome of Nerve Grafting for Radiation-Induced Brachial Plexopathy.

There is no consensus on the optimal treatment for radiation-induced brachial plexopathy (RIBP). To present our experience of using nerve resection and autografting as a treatment strategy for this challenging condition. From September 2014 to January 2020, 8 patients with RIBP were treated with segmental nerve resection and autografting, with or without other supplementary procedures. All patients underwent sural nerve grafting to the musculocutaneous nerve. All were female with a mean age of 53 (range 38-64) years. Seven were on the left, and 1 was on the right. The mean follow-up duration was 33 (range 17-72) months. By the final review, 7 of 8 patients regained at least antigravity elbow flexion. Four patients reached Medical Research Council (MRC) grade 4, 3 MRC grade 3, and MRC grade 2 recovery in the biceps. The mean Visual Analog Score for pain improved from 2.6 preoperatively to 0.6 postoperatively ( P = .042). Nerve resection and autografting may restore satisfactory elbow flexion in patients with RIBP.

Outcomes of Functioning Free Gracilis Muscle Transplantation to Restore Elbow Flexion in Late Brachial Plexus Birth Injury.

Restoring elbow function is challenging after late presenting brachial plexus birth injury (BPBI). Free functioning muscle transplantation (FFMT) using the gracilis muscle is a reliable procedure to restore elbow flexion in patients with impaired function after spontaneous recovery or failed surgical reconstruction. A retrospective review was performed on BPBI patients more than 2 years of age who received a FFMT between January 1993 and January 2018, with the aim of improving elbow flexion as the primary or secondary functional goal. Patients with preoperative elbow flexion Medical Research Council (MRC) grades less than 3 with more than or equal to 18 months of follow-up duration were included in the analysis. Patient demographic information and pre/postoperative clinical parameters including elbow flexion MRC scale, passive elbow range of motion, and complications were recorded. Surgical data including donor nerve choice, site of the FFMT tendon attachment, and necessity of concomitant procedures or reoperation were also analyzed. Fifty-six FFMTs were performed for the primary (29 patients) or secondary (26 patients) objective of restoring elbow flexion. The mean age at the time of the procedure was 9.6 years (standard deviation [SD] = 6.29, R = 3-35). Mean follow-up was 7.9 years (SD = 5.2). Elbow flexion improved from a median MRC grade 2 to 4 after a FFMT (p < 0.05). Patients who had a FFMT to restore two functions had 86% lower elbow flexion MRC grades than those who had a FFMT to restore flexion only (p < 0.05). Patients less than 12 years old at the time of surgery had more complications, reoperations, and rates of a flexion contracture more than or equal to 30 degrees than those aged more than 12 years (p < 0.05). FFMT is a reliable option for upper extremity reanimation. Patients aged less than 12 years old at the time of FFMT had significantly more complications, reoperations, and rates of postoperative elbow flexion contracture more than or equal to 30 degrees, but equivalent elbow flexion MRC grades. III.

Double Fascicular Nerve Transfer to Restore Elbow Flexion Following Neuralgic Amyotrophy: A Case Report

Double fascicular nerve transfer (DFNT) involves transferring fascicles from the median and ulnar nerves to the musculocutaneous nerve to restore elbow flexion. We performed this procedure on a patient who was diagnosed with neuralgic amyotrophy (NA) 2 years previously. We aimed to investigate the short-term outcomes and feasibility of DFNT applied to non-traumatic neuropathy. A 63-year-old, right-handed man presented to us with persistent right elbow flexion weakness 24 months after receiving the diagnosis of NA. On examination, biceps strength was 0/5, and shoulder abduction strength was 3/5. Magnetic resonance neurography demonstrated muscle atrophy in the upper trunk. DFNT was considered to restore elbow flexion. The donor and recipient fascicles were then coapted (flexor digitorum superficialis to biceps brachii, flexor carpi ulnaris to brachialis). Postoperatively, paresthesia was reported in the area of ulnar innervation, and the patient complained of hand clumsiness. From postoperative day 10 onward, biceps muscle contracture was identified and on the 14th day, grade 3 elbow flexion strength was observed. We suggest that DFNT may be a safe and effective method to restore elbow flexion in patients with NA.

Anatomic Variations of the Musculocutaneous Nerve and Clinical Implications for Restoration of Elbow Flexion

The restoration of elbow flexion is of primary importance in the management of patients with brachial plexus injuries. Superior functional outcomes via fascicle transfer from the ulnar and median nerves have resulted in this transfer being considered the mainstay of recovery of elbow flexion in patients with intact C8 and T1 function. An understanding of the anatomy of the musculocutaneous nerve (MCN) and its branching pattern is key while performing these transfers. A prospective cohort study was conducted in patients who underwent nerve transfer for the restoration of elbow flexion following a traumatic brachial plexus injury. The anatomic course and branching pattern of the MCN were recorded in eligible cases, both as a line diagram and using intraoperative photographs. One hundred fifty patients underwent nerve transfer for the restoration of elbow flexion following an injury to the brachial plexus. The MCN in 138 patients (92%) was found to pierce the coracobrachialis muscle before emerging lateral to it. One hundred thirty-four patients (89.3%) demonstrated the "classical" anatomy. One hundred fifteen patients (76.6%) had a single primary branch to the biceps, whereas 25 patients (16.6%) demonstrated a discrete motor branch to each head. One hundred thirty-three dissections (88.6%) revealed a single muscular branch to the brachialis arising posteromedially from the MCN, distal to the origin of the branch to the biceps brachii. Notable unreported variations, such as the MCN penetrating the biceps as it descended, multiple brachialis branches, and trifurcation of divisions of the MCN, were documented. Variations in MCN anatomy are quite common, and even unreported variations can be encountered. Exploration of the MCN and its branches for nerve transfers requires knowledge of these anatomic variations and vigilance to prevent inadvertent injuries while dissecting them for nerve transfer surgery.

Nerve Transfers for Elbow Reconstruction in Upper and Extended Upper-Type Brachial Plexus Injuries: A Case Series.

Nerve transfers for elbow flexion in brachial plexus injuries have been used with increasing frequency because of the higher rate of success and acceptable morbidity. This is especially true in upper and extended upper-type brachial plexus injuries. To present the clinical outcomes of nerve transfers for elbow flexion in patients with upper and extended upper-type brachial plexus injuries. A retrospective cohort review was done on all patients with upper and extended upper-type brachial plexus injuries from 2006 to 2017, who underwent nerve transfers for the restoration of elbow flexion. Outcome variables include Filipino version of the disability of the arm, shoulder, and hand (FIL-DASH) score, elbow flexion strength and range of motion, and pain. All statistical significance was set at P &lt; .05. Fifty-six patients with nerve transfers to restore elbow flexion were included. There was a significant improvement in FIL-DASH scores in 28 patients after the nerve transfer procedure. Patients with C56 nerve root injuries and those with more than 2 years' follow-up have a higher percentage of regaining ≥M4 elbow flexion strength. Those with double nerve transfers had a higher percentage of ≥M4 elbow flexion strength, greater range of elbow flexion, and better FIL-DASH scores compared with single nerve transfers, but this did not reach statistical significance. Nerve transfer procedures improve FIL-DASH scores in upper and upper-type brachial plexus injuries. After nerve transfer, stronger elbow flexion can be expected in patients with C56 injuries, and those with longer follow-up.

Unipolar Latissimus Dorsi Transfer for Restoration of Elbow Flexion in Residual Post-traumatic Brachial Plexus Palsy Associated with Distal Humeral Fractures

Introduction Elbow flexion is indispensable for both functioning and nonfunctioning hands. It is well perceived that restoration of elbow function is the first reconstructive priority in cases of brachial plexus injuries. The authors assessed the impact of associated distal humeral fractures on the functional outcome after unipolar latissimus dorsi transfer (ULDT) for restoration of elbow flexion in patients with residual brachial plexus palsy (BPP).Patients and Methods Twenty-three patients operated for restoring elbow flexion after residual post-traumatic BPP (with or without distal humeral fracture) by unipolar latissimus dorsi transfer (ULDT) were reviewed for a retrospective study. Patients were divided into two groups; associated distal humeral fracture group (HF-group; 10 patients) and non-associated distal humeral fracture group (NHF-group; 13 patients). Elbow flexion active range of motion (AROM), flexion deformity in addition to Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS) were assessed.Results In both groups there were statistically better postoperative MEPS grading (p = 0.007, p = 0.001, respectively) and scoring with a mean of 81 ± 16.1 and 90 ± 4.6, respectively (p < 0.001). The mean postoperative elbow flexion AROM was statistically better in both groups. The mean supination AROM was better in NHF group (p = 0.057).Conclusion The use of ULDT in residual post-traumatic BPP is an efficient procedure in regaining functional flexion and supination. An associated distal humeral fracture does not significantly affect the final functional outcome.Level of Evidence Level IV.

Outcome of free gracilis muscle transfer for the restoration of elbow flexion in traumatic brachial plexus palsy.

Objectives The aim of this study was to evaluate the functional outcomes of patients with free gracilis muscle transfer (FGMT) for the restoration of elbow flexion. Patients and methods Between January 2012 and January 2019, a total of 16 patients (13 males, 3 females; mean age: 27.3±11.7 years; range: 18 to 53 years) who underwent FGMF to achieve elbow flexion after traumatic brachial plexus palsy (TBPP) were retrospectively analyzed. Data including demographic and clinical characteristics of the patients, etiology, affected side, injury level, accompanying injuries, time between injury and surgery, follow-up time, complications, whether nerve reconstruction and artery repair were performed previously, and details of the procedure were recorded. The outcome measures were elbow range of motion in degrees, muscle strength, and Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) and Short Form-36 (SF-36) scores.Results The mean follow-up was 30±11.5 (range, 24 to 42) months. Two patients had C5-C8 injuries, two patients had C6-T1 injuries, and all other patients had injuries to the C5-T1 roots. Muscle strength was M3/M4 in 11 (68.8%) patients, M2 in two (12.5%) patients, and M0 in one (6.2%) patient. The median active range of motion of the elbow joint in patients with successful results (M3 and above) was measured as 75 (range, 30 to 100) degrees. A statistically significant improvement was observed in the pre- and postoperative DASH scores and in some SF-36 subscale scores of patients with successful results.Conclusion Free gracilis muscle flap is a reliable option in the restoration of elbow flexion in patients with TBPP. Although there is an improvement in functional results, disability, and quality of life, there may be no change in patients’ mental status and pain.

Dynamic Evaluation of Intraneural Microvascularity of the Ulnar Nerve Using Contrast-Enhanced Ultrasonography in Patients With Cubital Tunnel Syndrome

The purpose of this study was to compare the intraneural microvascular patterns of the ulnar nerve at 2 elbow flexion angles in asymptomatic volunteers and patients with cubital tunnel syndrome (CuTS) and to evaluate the effects of surgery on the microvascular pattern in patients with CuTS by using contrast-enhanced ultrasonography (CEUS). This study included 10 elbows in 10 asymptomatic volunteers (control group) and 10 elbows in 10 patients with CuTS who underwent anterior subcutaneous transposition of the ulnar nerve (CuTS group). The CuTS group underwent clinical and electrophysiologic examinations and CEUS before surgery and at 1, 2, and 3 months after surgery. The intraneural enhancement pattern was calculated as an area under the curve (AUC) value in the entrapment site of the ulnar nerve within the cubital tunnel and in the area 1 cm proximal to the site (proximal site) at elbow flexion angles of 20° and 110°. Serial electrophysiologic examinations showed improvements at 1, 2, and 3 months after surgery compared with before surgery. In the control group, the AUC values of the central part of the cubital tunnel and proximal sites showed no substantial changes with the increase in elbow flexion. In the CuTS group, the AUC in the proximal site at 110° of elbow flexion was decreased compared with that at 20° of flexion before surgery. The AUC values for both the entrapment and proximal sites at 20° and 110° of elbow flexion were the most increased at 2 months after surgery compared with before surgery. Increased elbow flexion in patients with CuTS influences the intraneural blood flow of the ulnar nerve. Surgery for CuTS alters the intraneural blood flow. Quantitative evaluation of the intraneural blood flow of the ulnar nerve using CEUS may be a new supplementary diagnostic tool for CuTS and an indicator for the evaluation of postoperative recovery from nerve damage.

Nerve Transfers for Restoration of Elbow Flexion in Patients With Acute Flaccid Myelitis

The purpose of this study was to evaluate short- to midterm outcomes of patients with acute flaccid myelitis who underwent nerve transfers for restoration of elbow flexion. Patients with a minimum of 10 months of follow up after undergoing nerve transfers to restore elbow flexion were clinically assessed using the Active Movement Scale (AMS). They were evaluated for any postoperative complications, particularly weakness in the distribution of the donor nerve(s). Fifteen of 25 consecutive patients who were treated using this surgical technique were included in the final analysis. All patients exhibited poor elbow flexion preoperatively (AMS 0 to 3). At a mean follow up of 17.3 months, 80% (15/25) of patients achieved excellent elbow flexion (AMS 6 or 7); 9 of these 15 had full active range of motion. Two patients achieved good elbow flexion (AMS 5) with antigravity movement to less than 50% of the passive range of motion. No cases of superficial or deep infection were reported, and all patients maintained identical motor function, relative to preoperative status, of the muscles innervated by the donor nerves. Nerve transfer surgery has shown promising short- to midterm results for recovery of nerve and muscle function, particularly for the restoration of elbow flexion. We recommend this treatment option for patients not demonstrating clinical improvement after 6 to 9 months of incomplete recovery. Therapeutic IV.

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Neurophysiological signals for estimation of the result of latissimus dorsii muscle transfer to biceps brachii in patients with arthrogryposis

Background. One of the leading causes of restriction in daily-living activities in patients with arthrogryposis is severe hypoplasia (or aplasia) of the biceps brachii. Latissimus dorsii muscle transfer to the biceps brachii is one of the most used methods for the reconstruction of active elbow flexion in patients with arthrogryposis.&#x0D; Aim. The aim of the study is to identify neurophysiological correlates for evaluating the result of the transposition of the latissimus dorsii muscle to the biceps in patients with multiple congenital arthrogryposis.&#x0D; Materials and methods. From 2011 to 2018, we performed monopolar latissimus dorsii muscle transfer to the biceps for the restoration of active elbow flexion in 30 patients with arthrogryposis (44 upper extremities). The follow-up results were studied in 14 cases. For this purpose, we used clinical examination, surface electromyography (sEMG), and statistical analysis. The patients were examined before and from 1 month to 96 months (7 months; 224.5 months) after the surgery. The age of patients was from 1 to 10 years at the time of surgery (4.89 2.42 years).&#x0D; Results. Our study showed that the age of the child at the time of surgery does not significantly change the index of activation of the latissimus dorsii muscle. A decrease of coactivation of the latissimus dorsii muscle in the long term after surgery correlates with an increase in the strength of the displaced latissimus dorsii muscle, and an improvement in active flexion in the elbow. If the value of the index of coactivation of the latissimus dorsii muscle is less 42%, the muscle strength after surgery reaches 4 points. It was found that the index of coactivation of the latissimus dorsii muscle does not depend on the level of segmental damage to the spinal cord. However, the strength of the muscle depends on the level of spinal cord damage.&#x0D; Conclusion. The determination of the index coactivation of the latissimus dorsii muscle after surgery can be used to evaluate the results of the latissimus dorsii muscle transfer to the biceps in patients with arthrogryposis. The index of activation of the latissimus dorsii muscle must be less than 42% for effective elbow active flexion.

Bipolar Latissimus Dorsi Transfer for Arthrogryposis Multiplex Congenita: Minimum 10-Month Follow-Up

To examine the outcomes of patients who have undergone bipolar latissimus dorsi transfer for loss of elbow flexion in arthrogryposis multiplex congenita (AMC). This study retrospectively evaluated 6 cases (5 patients) of bipolar latissimus dorsi transfer performed to restore active elbow flexion in pediatric patients with AMC. Elbow range of motion and strength were evaluated before and after surgery. Functional outcomes were evaluated by the patients' ability to perform activities of daily living. Complications and patient satisfaction were also evaluated at final follow-up. The patients were a mean age of 7.8 ± 3 years. The mean follow-up was 30.2 months (range, 10-44 months). At most recent follow-up, all cases reported improved function of the surgical extremity when performing activities of daily living and overall satisfaction. The postoperative active range of motion was 76° ± 14°. All cases had active elbow flexion against gravity. One patient was noted to have decreased muscle activation of the transfer 6 months after surgery, but strength improved by the 10-month follow-up. No other complications were noted. We recommend bipolar latissimus dorsi transfer as a reliable option to restore functional elbow flexion in patients with AMC. Meticulous pedicle handling and assessment of the latissimus dorsi viability is paramount. Therapeutic V.

Ultrasonographic Findings of the Ulnar Nerve Following Elbow Flexion in Patients with Cubital Tunnel Syndrome.

To evaluate the ultrasonographic findings obtained following various degrees of elbow flexion in patients with cubital tunnel syndrome (CuTS). Retrospective, cross-sectional study. General teaching hospital, rehabilitation unit. Electrophysiological and ultrasonographic assessments were performed on 11 elbows of healthy controls and 21 elbows of 17 patients with CuTS. Dynamic movement of the ulnar nerve during elbow motion was measured. To measure ulnar nerve dynamic movement during elbow motion, the distance from the medial epicondyle (ME) to the nearest surface of the ulnar nerve toward the ME was measured at the cubital tunnel inlet at elbow extension (0°), elbow flexion to 60°, and elbow flexion to 90°. The distance between the ME and ulnar nerve was lower in CuTS patients than in healthy patients at all elbow flexion angles. This difference was statistically significant at 0° and 60° elbow flexion (P < 0.05). When calculating the cutoff value, the distance between the ME and ulnar nerve at full elbow extension for CuTS diagnosis was 0.53 cm (sensitivity = 71.4%, specificity = 90.7%). The distance ratio between the ME and ulnar nerve for diagnosis of ulnar neuropathy at the elbow was 24.4% (sensitivity = 76.2%, specificity = 100%). Measurement of the distance between the ME and ulnar nerve in full elbow extension may facilitate the diagnosis of patients with CuTS. These findings may be important for CuTS diagnosis, as they were also observed in patients with mild-stage CuTS.

Use of Myoelectric Limb Orthoses for Elbow Flexion in Patients with Brachial Plexus Injury: A Case Series

ABSTRACT Introduction Myoelectric limb orthoses (MLOs) are powered devices that assist with specific motions in patients with neuromuscular deficits or inadequate motor power. MLOs enable patients to self-initiate and control movements using their own muscle signals. While these devices have been used for patients that have sustained neurologic deficits from cerebrovascular accidents, their use in traumatic adult brachial plexus injuries is novel. Materials and Methods This case series presents three patients with traumatic brachial plexus injuries treated with MLOs to improve elbow flexion after inadequate recovery. The MLO was used as both a rehabilitation device and a functional device. Results/Conclusions MLOs demonstrate potential for improving patient clinical outcomes and satisfaction after brachial plexus injuries with incomplete recovery or inadequate function after surgical intervention.

Reconstruction of elbow flexion with a modified Oberlin procedure: A comparative study

IntroductionIn upper brachial plexus injuries (C5-C6-C7), selective nerve transfers appear as a favourable technique. For this purpose, transfer of an ulnar nerve fascicle to the biceps motor branch (Oberlin's procedure) is often used. In this paper we present our modified Oberlin technique, as well as a comparison of this method with the classic Oberlin procedure. Materials and MethodsWe present two groups of patients that where operated by two different surgeons. The first group, consisting of 16 patients was treated with the classic Oberlin procedure. The second group included 5 patients treated with a modified Oberlin procedure, where two fascicles from the ulnar nerve were transferred to both the motor branch of the biceps and the motor branch of the brachialis muscles. ResultsIn the last follow-up of the 16 patients from the first group with the classic Oberlin procedure, 15 patients (93.75%) had Medical Research Council (MRC) grade of biceps strength 4 and 1 patient (6.25%) had MRC grade 3, whereas in the group where the modified Oberlin procedure was used the muscle strength was very durable with 4 out of 5 the patients reached MRC grade of 4+ and one MRC grade of 4, and with a mean elbow strength at 5.4 kg (3–8 kg). No sensitivity or motor problems were encountered on the ulnar territories for both groups. ConclusionWith the modified Oberlin technique, the median nerve is reserved and both elbow flexors are innervated. The results of this technique compare favourably with those of other methods. Thus, we propose using the double fascicle transfer from the ulnar nerve to both elbow flexors in order to restore a strong elbow flexion in patients with upper brachial plexus injuries.

Results of Phrenic Nerve Transfer to the Musculocutaneous Nerve Using Video-Assisted Thoracoscopy in Patients with Traumatic Brachial Plexus Injury: Series of 28 Cases.

The phrenic nerve can be transferred to the musculocutaneous nerve using video-assisted thoracoscopy, aiming at the recovery of elbow flexion in patients with traumatic brachial plexus injuries. There are few scientific papers in the literature that evaluate the results of this operative technique. To evaluate biceps strength and pulmonary function after the transfer of the phrenic nerve to the musculocutaneous nerve using video-assisted thoracoscopy. A retrospective study was carried out in a sample composed of 28 patients who were victims of traumatic injury to the brachial plexus from 2008 to 2013. Muscle strength was graded using the British Medical Research Council (BMRC) scale and pulmonary function through spirometry. Statistical tests, with significance level of 5%, were used. In total, 74.1% of the patients had biceps strength greater than or equal to M3. All patients had a decrease in forced vital capacity and forced expiratory volume in 1 s, with no evidence of recovery over time. Transferring the phrenic nerve to the musculocutaneous nerve using video-assisted thoracoscopy may lead to an increase in biceps strength to BMRC M3 or greater in most patients. Considering the deterioration in the parameters of spirometry observed in our patients and the future effects of aging in the respiratory system, it is not possible at the moment to guarantee the safety of this operative technique in the long term.

Minimum Ten-Year Outcomes of Partial Ulnar Nerve Transfer for Restoration of Elbow Flexion in Patients with Upper Brachial Plexus Injury.

Background: Partial ulnar nerve transfer to the biceps motor branch of the musculocutaneous nerve (Oberlin's transfer) is a successful approach to restore elbow flexion in patients with upper brachial plexus injury (BPI). However, there is no report on more than 10 years subjective and objective outcomes. The purpose of this study was to clarify the long-term outcomes of Oberlin's transfer based on the objective evaluation of elbow flexion strength and subjective functional evaluation of patients. Methods: Six patients with BPI who underwent Oberlin's transfer were reviewed retrospectively by their medical records. The mean age at surgery was 29.5 years, and the mean follow-up duration was 13 years. The objective functional outcomes were evaluated by biceps muscle strength using the Medical Research Council (MRC) grade at preoperative, postoperative, and final follow-up. The patient-derived subjective functional outcomes were evaluated using the Quick Disability of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (QuickDASH) questionnaire at final follow-up. Results: All patients had MRC grade 0 (M0) or 1 (M1) elbow flexion strength before operation. Four patients gained M4 postoperatively and maintained or increased muscle strength at the final follow-up. One patient gained M3 postoperatively and at the final follow-up. Although one patient achieved M4 postoperatively, the strength was reduced to M2 due to additional disorder. The mean score of QuickDASH was 36.5 (range, 7-71). Patients were divided into two groups; three patients had lower scores and the other three patients had higher scores of QuickDASH. Conclusions: Oberlin's transfer is effective in the restoration of elbow flexion and can maintain the strength for more than 10 years. Patients with upper BPI with restored elbow flexion strength and no complicated nerve disorders have over ten-year subjective satisfaction.

A review of functional latissimus dorsi transfers for absent elbow flexion and supination.

To review patients treated with a functional latissimus dorsi flap for congenital and acquired elbow flexion deficits. Retrospective review of functional latissimus dorsi flaps performed in one regional unit. Patient notes were reviewed to determine aetiology, pre-op deficits and function, surgical technique, complications and outcomes. A total of six functional latissimus dorsi transfers were performed on four patients. Two patients had bilateral latissimus dorsi transfers for congenital defects. The remaining two procedures were for traumatic defects. Post-operatively both children had excellent outcomes with full range of active movement allowing them to perform key activities of daily living. Epimysium of latissimus dorsi folded to form a pseudo-tendon, tunnelled subcutaneously and either attached to a remnant of biceps tendon or secured to the radius. Congenital patients achieved better outcomes; pre-operatively, there was no active elbow flexion in all four elbows but 90-100 of passive flexion. One latissimus dorsi dehiscence which required revision surgery. Two donor-site seromas. Functional latissimus dorsi transfer has been shown to achieve excellent elbow flexion in patients with congenital absence of biceps and brachialis muscles. Outcomes in older patients with traumatic injuries have been less successful in achieving a full range of active flexion.