Use of a free-functioning muscle transfer from a paralyzed lower extremity to restore upper extremity elbow flexion.

Brian T. Carlsen, Matthew C. Wendt, Robert J. Spinner, Allen T. Bishop, Alexander Y. Shin

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

2 Scopus citations

Abstract

This report documents the use of a free-functioning gracilis muscle transfer from a lower extremity paralyzed from a spinal cord injury to restore elbow flexion in the patient's upper extremity which was paralyzed from a brachial plexus injury. The transfer was performed nine months after injury and resulted in functional elbow flexion. Clinical examination and EMG analysis document function of the transferred muscle with grade 4 muscle strength. The resultant effect on the skeletal muscle is different after upper motor neuron injury versus lower motor neuron injury. The successful function of a free-functioning muscle transfer after a spinal cord injury in this case has important implications for patients with spinal cord injury.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)247-251
Number of pages5
JournalJournal of surgical orthopaedic advances
Volume20
Issue number4
StatePublished - Dec 2011

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Medicine

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