Median to Radial Nerve Tendon Transfers: PT to ECRB, FCR to EDC, PL to EPL - Extended
Authors: Mackinnon SE1, Yee A1
Published: February 24, 2012
AUTHOR INFORMATION
1 Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Washington University, St. Louis, Missouri
DISCLOSURE
No authors have a financial interest in any of the products, devices, or drugs mentioned in this production or publication.
ABSTRACT
Tendon transfers are an available option for reconstructing wrist and finger/thumb extension following radial nerve injury when nerve transfers are contra-indicated. The donor median-innervated tendons are used to reconstruct the recipient radial-innervated tendons. This tutorial describes the following tendon transfers: (1) pronator teres (PT) to extensor carpi radialis brevis (ECRB), (2) flexor carpi radialis (FCR) to extensor digitorum communis (EDC), and (3) palmaris longus (PL) to extensor pollicis longus (EPL). In this specific case, the patient had a left humeral fracture and lost complete radial nerve function. He consulted with our institution six months following the injury. While he was within the time limitation of nerve transfers, he elected for tendon transfers for radial nerve palsy.
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