Ultrasonic evaluation of muscle functional recovery following free functioning gracilis transfer, a preliminary study

Abstract Background Ultrasonic measurement has not been utilized to assess the functional recovery of transplanted muscle. This study aimed investigate feasibility using B-ultrasound muscle following free functioning gracilis transfer. Methods From January 2009 2014, 35 patients receiving transfer treat total brachial plexus injury were enrolled. was adopted determine cross-sectional area (CSA) at rest and contraction state. The ratio pre- post-transplant CSA value state defined as bulk (MBR). (CR). Results Patients with strength M ≥ 4 had significantly higher CR1 (post-transplant), CR2 (pre-transplant), range motion (ROM, joint mobility) than those < 4. > group CR1, strength, ROM ≤ group. MBR 1 highly correlated ROM. moderately Multivariate linear regression analysis showed that a CR1/CR2 associated mobility. better groups. Conclusion can quantitatively reflect transfer, CR could be potential indicator for Level Evidence: Prognostic studies, II.