Repair of ulnar nerve lesions by suture or grafts often gives good results, but in some cases there persists a long-term isolated paralysis of the muscles of the first web space. There is certain to be a resulting loss of function from loss of the thumb-index pinch which can be corrected by tendon transfers. In 11 cases the authors have used two tendon transfers: the short extensor of the thumb to re-establish the function of the first dorsal interosseous muscle, and the extensor indicis proprius to improve adduction. In every case there was notable improvement in the function of the hand.
Adolescent Adult