SURGICAL RECONSTRUCTION OF THE UPPER LIMB IN TRAUMATIC TETRAPLEGIA

Abstract

A review is presented of 41 patients with traumatic tetraplegia on whom reconstructive surgery of the upper limb was carried out. Twelve patients were followed up for more than 10 years after operation and the average period overall was seven and a half years. Tendon fransfers were made with the aim of providing extension of the elbow or restoring a useful grasp or a combination of both. The assessment was carried out on four main aspects: the function ofthe elbow, the function of the hand, the ability to carry out the activities of daily living and the effect of the surgical reconstruction on the personal and social achievement of the patient.