Opponensplasty through translocation of the flexor pollicis longus. Technique and indications

Eleven cases of opponensplasty by translocation of the flexor pollicis longus are reported. Some technical points ought to be outlined: this translocation is mostly performed through a fused IP joint; the level of the reflection of the translocated tendon should necessarily be the neck of the first metacarpal bone. Nine cases were reviewed with eight very good results. There are very few indications for this technique: total palsy of thenar muscles with stiff IP flexion deformity of the thumb, whenever a fusion is indicated. Particular cases of high-level palsy of the upper limb, when no other transfer can possibly be used.