Clinical outcomes of extensor indicis proprius tendon transfer for extensor pollicis longus tendon rupture

Abstract

The purpose of the present study was to investigate the clinical results of extensor indicis proprius tendon transfer for extensor pollicis longus tendon rupture, with a focus on objective measurement of extensor strength. We studied 40 patients who underwent extensor indicis proprius transfer with a minimum follow-up of 12 months. Outcome measurements included the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) score, range of motion and grip power of the thumb and index finger. The thumb and index finger of the operated hand showed approximately 20% lower extensor power ( p < 0.001) compared to the non-operated hand at final follow-up. However, the DASH score significantly improved. The range of motion in the index finger was near normal, while there was an extension deficit in the thumb of 1.2 cm and a flexion deficit of 1.7 cm compared to the normal side. Despite the decrease in extension strength, clinical functional scores and range of motion were favourable. Level of evidence: IV