Restoration of elbow flexion by modified Steindler flexorplasty

A modified Steindler flexorplasty was used to restore elbow flexion in 8 patients with post-traumatic flail elbow. In 5 patients there was associated loss of wrist and finger extension, which was treated by tendon transfer and in 2 patients an associated flail shoulder was treated by arthrodesis. The results were not compromised in patients whose flexor tendons had been transferred for wrist and finger extension. All patients had a stable and mobile elbow with marked improvement of upper limb function. Modified Steindler flexorplasty is a simple, effective and reliable procedure for the restoration of elbow flexion.