Reconstruction of the Flexor Pollicis Longus Tendon with Vascularized Tendon with Ulnar Artery Preservation

Abstract

Background: Reconstruction of the flexor pollicis longus tendon using staged grafting yields modest results. A modification of the pedicled vascularized flexor digitorum superficialis transfer, without division of the ulnar artery, was used in five patients. Methods: The flexor digitorum superficialis and its gliding tissue were transferred in five patients, based on a branch of the ulnar artery without division of the ulnar vessels. Functional results were evaluated using a total active range of motion and Buck-Gramko score at 10 months by an independent hand therapist. Results: The mean total active motion of the interphalangeal joint was 49 degrees, with a Buck-Gramko score of excellent in three cases and good in two. No complications were recorded. Conclusion: Reconstruction of the flexor pollicis longus tendon with single-staged vascularized FDS transfer without ulnar artery division yielded good results in a small cohort of five cases.