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Free Flap Functional Muscle Transfers.

Ryan M Garcia1, David S Ruch2

  • 1OrthoCarolina, Division of Hand Surgery, Hand Center, 1915 Randolph Road, 2nd Floor, Charlotte, NC 28207, USA.

Hand Clinics
|July 9, 2016
PubMed
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Free functional muscle transfers restore upper extremity function, especially after trauma or brachial plexopathy. Optimizing donor nerve selection and surgical technique is key for successful reinnervation and functional outcomes.

Area of Science:

  • Reconstructive surgery
  • Microsurgery
  • Orthopedic surgery

Background:

  • Free functional muscle transfers are vital for restoring upper extremity function when tendon or nerve transfers fail.
  • Commonly indicated for trauma, ischemic contractures, and brachial plexopathies.
  • Outcomes vary based on motor nerve availability and successful reinnervation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To highlight critical considerations for performing free functional muscle transfers.
  • To detail donor motor nerve selection, dissection, and gracilis muscle utilization.
  • To describe the surgical approach for restoring elbow and/or digit flexion.

Main Methods:

  • Review of surgical techniques for free functional muscle transfer.
  • Emphasis on donor motor nerve selection and dissection strategies.
Keywords:
FlapFreeFunctionalMuscleTransfer

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  • Guidance on gracilis muscle preparation and transfer for elbow/digit flexion.

    • Main Results:

    • Successful free functional muscle transfers depend on meticulous nerve selection and dissection.
    • Proper technique enhances reinnervation potential and functional recovery.
    • Gracilis muscle is a viable option for restoring specific upper extremity movements.

    Conclusions:

    • Free functional muscle transfers are a powerful reconstructive option for upper extremity deficits.
    • Careful donor nerve choice and surgical technique are paramount for optimal results.
    • This technique offers a solution for patients with limited reconstructive alternatives.