Biceps to Flexor Digitorum Superficialis Tendon Transfer for Finger Flexion Reconstruction After Pan-brachial Plexus Injury
Biceps to Flexor Digitorum Superficialis Tendon Transfer for Finger Flexion Reconstruction After Pan-brachial Plexus Injury
This study is a prospective single-arm surgical protocol evaluating biceps-to-flexor digitorum superficialis (FDS) tendon transfer using a tensor fascia lata graft for restoration of finger flexion in patients with traumatic pan-brachial plexus injury (pan-BPI). Finger flexion reconstruction in intrinsic-minus hands remains challenging, as conventional flexor digitorum profundus (FDP)-based reconstructions may result in clawing and ineffective grasp. The proposed technique aims to improve metacarpophalangeal and proximal interphalangeal joint flexion to enhance functional grasp. Eligible patients are those with pan-BPI who previously underwent nerve transfer and achieved elbow flexion strength of at least Medical Research Council (MRC) grade 4. Patients with significant joint stiffness, severe forearm soft tissue injury, or insufficient elbow flexion strength are excluded. The procedure consists of staged reconstruction followed by tendon transfer with tensor fascia lata graft interposition. Postoperative management includes 4 weeks of immobilization and progressive rehabilitation. The primary outcome is functional finger flexion, while secondary outcomes include complications and reoperation rates.
Traumatic pan-brachial plexus injury (pan-BPI) results in severe upper limb dysfunction, with finger flexion restoration remaining challenging. FDP-based reconstructions often produce clawing and ineffective grasp in intrinsic-minus hands. This study proposes biceps-to-FDS tendon transfer using a tensor fascia lata graft to improve MCP and PIP flexion and enhance grasp. This is a prospective single-arm surgical protocol. Eligible patients include those with pan-BPI who have undergone nerve transfer and achieved elbow flexion at least MRC grade 4. Patients with joint stiffness, severe forearm soft tissue injury, or inadequate elbow strength are excluded. The procedure involves staged reconstruction, followed by tendon transfer with graft interposition. Postoperatively, immobilization is maintained for 4 weeks, with gradual rehabilitation. Primary outcome is functional finger flexion. Secondary outcomes include complications and reoperation.
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