Surgery to Improve Hand Function in Tetraplegia
Author Information
Author(s): Carina Reinholdt, Jan Fridén
Primary Institution: National Center of Reconstructive Hand Surgery in Tetraplegia, Department of Hand Surgery, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Göteborg, Sweden
Hypothesis
The study aims to evaluate the functional effect of the distal ulnar intrinsic release procedure to reduce intrinsic tightness in patients with tetraplegia.
Conclusion
The distal ulnar intrinsic release procedure effectively reduces intrinsic tightness and improves hand function and grip in patients with tetraplegia.
Supporting Evidence
- All patients had improved range of motion by 25% to 45% post-surgery.
- The intrinsic tightness was completely released in all patients.
- Follow-up at 6 months showed maintained or slightly increased range of motion.
Takeaway
Doctors can help people with weak hands due to spinal injuries by doing a special surgery that makes their fingers move better.
Methodology
Patients underwent a modified distal intrinsic release procedure focusing on the ulnar side of the proximal phalanx, with evaluations of range of motion preoperatively and at 1, 3, and 6 months postoperatively.
Limitations
The study is limited by the small number of patients and variability among them.
Participant Demographics
The mean age of patients was 48 years, with 6 women and 11 men.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p = 0.019 for long finger, p = 0.037 for ring finger
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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