Effectiveness of Distal Nerve Transfers for Claw Correction With Proximal Ulnar Nerve Lesions.

Abstract

To evaluate claw deformity correction following anterior interosseous nerve (AIN) end-to-end transfer to the deep motor branch of the ulnar nerve (DMBUN) in high ulnar nerve injuries. Eleven patients were retrospectively evaluated for metacarpophalangeal joint hyperextension and proximal interphalangeal joint extension lag in the fourth and fifth digits following ulnar nerve injury adjacent or proximal to the elbow, who underwent AIN end-to-end transfer to the DMBUN. Patients underwent surgery an average of 5 months following injury (range, 2-9 months) and were followed for an average of 19 months after surgery (range, 12-30 months). At the last follow-up, clawing was observed in all patients, with proximal interphalangeal joint extension lag averaging 46.8° (SD, ±20°) in the fourth digit and 57.7° (SD, ±12°) in the little finger. None of our patients experienced claw correction after AIN end-to-end transfer to the DMBUN. Therapeutic IV.