Restoration of elbow extension power in the tetraplegic patient using the Moberg technique

In tetroplegic patients extensor power can be restored to the elbow by transferring the posterior deltoid muscle to the triceps aponeurosis. Thirteen patients representing 14 posterior deltoid muscle transfers were evaluated 13.8 months later. Using a 0 to 5 muscle grading system, the average preoperative muscle grade for elbow extension power was 0.5. After operation the average had increased to 3.6. All patients were satisfied with their results and noted a significant improvement in the activities of daily living. In no case was there a loss of preoperative functional capacity.