Restoration of flexor pollicis longus function by flexor digitorum superficialis transfer

Fourteen patients were treated by flexor digitorum superficialis transfer for irreparable flexor pollicis longus lesions. Results measured by return of interphalangeal joint motion were good in 12 patients, with one patient achieving a fair result and one failure. This is a reliable procedure in thumbs with a grade I or II (Boyes) tendon bed and should be considered as an alternative to free tendon grafting for reconstruction in patients in whom return of interphalangeal motion is desirable.