Long-Term Functional Evaluation on Tendon Transfer to Restore Extension of the Thumb using Extensor Carpi Radialis Brevis

Purpose: To investigate the long-term functional and clinical outcomes of a tendon transfer to restore extension of the thumb using extensor carpi radialis brevis Methods and materials: From Jun 2005 to Sep 2012, 8 patients with rupture or division of extensor pollicis longus (6 males, 2 females; aged 16-52 years, mean age 30 years) underwent a tendon transfer using the extensor carpi radialis brevis to restore extension of the thumb. All patients were assessed by Geldmacher score system, mobility, pinch and grip strength of thumb comparing to the non-operated hand over an average of 36 months (range, 24–84 months) after the operation. Result: At an average follow-up of 36 months, all eight patients were able to extend their thumbs fully, and assessed as good or excellent by Geldmacher score system. Average grip strength of the operated hand was equal to that of the contra lateral hand, and tip pinch strengths were 92% of the contra lateral hand. There was no marked loss of extension motion and strength of wrist, and no other postoperative complications. Conclusions: The procedure of extensor carpi radialis brevis tendon transfer to extensor pollicis longus provides excellent long-term clinical results for restoring extension of the thumb. The procedure is safe, with few complications, which can be an alternate procedure of restoring extension of the thumb.