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Optimum tensioning position for extensor indicis to extensor pollicis longus transfer.
C K Low1, B P Pereira, V T Chao
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore.
Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research
|July 14, 2001
Summary
Optimal tensioning for extensor indicis proprius to extensor pollicis longus tendon transfer involves positioning the thumb in full extension and the wrist in neutral. This method ensures good thumb flexion and extension range post-surgery.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic surgery
- Hand surgery
- Biomechanics
Background:
- Tendon transfers are crucial for restoring hand function.
- Optimizing thumb motion after extensor indicis proprius to extensor pollicis longus transfer requires precise tendon tensioning.
- The ideal wrist and thumb positioning for this specific transfer remains debated.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate various wrist and thumb positions for tensioning the extensor indicis proprius (EIP) tendon during transfer to the extensor pollicis longus (EPL) tendon.
- To determine the optimal position that maximizes passive thumb flexion and extension range.
- To correlate cadaveric findings with clinical outcomes in patients.
Main Methods:
- Simulated EIP to EPL tendon transfer in five adult cadaver upper limbs.
- Digitized bone markers to analyze 3D thumb and wrist joint angles under 80 N tension.
- Tested twelve combinations of thumb and wrist positions for tensioning.
- Assessed passive thumb range of motion using a wrist tenodesis effect.
- Prospective review of six patients undergoing the EIP to EPL transfer, tensioned in the determined optimal position.
Main Results:
- The optimal tensioning position identified was with the thumb in full extension and the wrist in neutral.
- In clinical cases, tensioning the tendons in this position resulted in no significant functional differences compared to the contralateral normal thumb.
- Functional assessments (Jebsen Taylor, 9-peg, grip, pinch strength) showed comparable results between surgically treated and normal thumbs.
Conclusions:
- Tensioning the extensor indicis proprius tendon with the thumb in full extension and the wrist in neutral provides optimal passive range of motion for thumb flexion and extension.
- This technique is effective in clinical application, leading to satisfactory functional outcomes after extensor indicis proprius to extensor pollicis longus tendon transfer.
- The study provides evidence-based guidance for surgeons performing this common hand reconstruction procedure.