EXTENSOR INDICIS-PROPRIUS TRANSFER FOR LOSS OF EXTENSOR POLLICIS LONGUS FUNCTION

In the period 1969-1991, 46 extensor indicis proprius tendon transfers were performed for functional loss of extensor pollicis longus. The l ong-term function of the thumb was reviewed in 22 patients with an ave rage follow-up of 7 years. Based on Geldmacher's evaluation scheme for assessment of the results of extensor tendon reconstruction, we repor t 5 excellent (23%), 4 good (18%), 12 satisfactory (55%) and 1 poor (4 %) result. The mean loss of pinch strength was 8% compared with the co ntralateral, non-operated thumb. Subjectively, the majority of the pat ients (86%) described no limitations in their daily life activities. I t is recommended that the transfer be tight enough to give full thumb extension and that the hand be immobilized with the thumb in this posi tion for 4 weeks.