Transfer of a single fascicle from the ulnar nerve to the biceps muscle after avulsions of upper roots of the brachial plexus

Abstract

Thirty-six patients with avulsions of upper roots of the brachial plexus underwent transfer of a single fascicle from the ulnar nerve to the proximal motor branch of the biceps muscle to restore elbow flexion. The mean period of follow-up was 22 months. The average reinnervation time for the biceps muscle was 3.3 months. Thirty-four patients achieved biceps strength of Medical Research Council grade 3 or better. The operative results in the patients with C5, C6 avulsions were better than those with C5, C6, C7 avulsions. At the last follow-up examination, grip strength, pinch strength, moving two-point discrimination and the strength of flexion of the wrist on the affected side was not worse than before surgery in any patient.