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 underwent tendon transfer for isolated radial nerve palsy. The average number of postoperative visits was eight (range of postoperative visits, 3-16), and the mean follow-up was 6.3 years. All but 1 patient had improved function after the tendon transfers, and could cope with the activities of daily living. Radial deviation of the wrist at rest was present in 10 of the 15 patients with flexor carpi ulnaris transfer and in 2 of 7 patients with flexor carpi radialis transfer, with a mean of 14.5 deg (range of radial deviation, 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 transfer; however, only 1 of 7 heavy manual laborers was able to return to his previous employment. Despite the poor clinic attendance, the overall functional results compared favorably with other published series. It appears that tendon transfer for radial nerve palsy is a viable option, even in patients with limited rehabilitation.