Long-term results of tendon transfers for radial nerve palsy in patients with limited rehabilitation

The authors reviewed the long-term functional results of 22 patients who un derwent tendon transfer for isolated radial nerve palsy. The average number of postoperative visits was eight (range of postoperative visits, 3-16), a nd the mean follow-up was 6.3 years. All but 1 patient had improved functio n after the tendon transfers, and could cope with the activities of daily l iving. Radial deviation of the wrist at rest was present in 10 of the 15 pa tients with flexor carpi ulnaris transfer and in 2 of 7 patients with flexo r carpi radialis transfer, with a mean of 14.5 deg (range of radial deviati on, 5-30 deg), Although a global decrease in wrist power and power grip was noted, 13 of 17 previously employed patients were able to work after trans fer; however, only 1 of 7 heavy manual laborers was able to return to his p revious employment. Despite the poor clinic attendance, the overall functio nal results compared favorably with other published series. It appears that tendon transfer for radial nerve palsy is a viable option, even in patient s with limited rehabilitation.