J Korean Orthop Assoc.  1983 Apr;18(2):371-380. 10.4055/jkoa.1983.18.2.371.

Free Gracilis Muscle Transplantation in Severe Volkmann's Contracture & Brachial Plexus Injury

• Yoo MC
• Kang SH
• Kim YK
• Han CS

• KMID: 2450045
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.4055/jkoa.1983.18.2.371

Abstract

Two patients with flexor paralysis of the elbow due to brachial plexus injury and three patients with flexor paralysis of the wrist and fingers due to Volkmann's contracture were treated by transplantation of the gracilis muscle which was detached at both ends and transferred to replace the biceps and long finger flexors, preserving its long and lax neurovascular pedicle. At eleven to fifteen months after operation, the strength and flexion of the elbow were satisfactory and the additional cosmetic effect was obtained. This method should be performed only after a complete study of the patient's general functional needs and the condition of the affected arm, forearm and hand.

Keyword

Free gracilis muscle transplantation; Volkmanns contracture; Brachial plexus injury

MeSH Terms

Arm
Brachial Plexus*
Contracture*
Elbow
Fingers
Forearm
Hand
Humans
Methods
Paralysis
Wrist