Restoring Function: Tendon and Nerve Transfers

Traumatic injury to the upper extremity can have devastating long-term consequences. After establishing good bony support and addressing any soft tissue deficits, functional reconstruction should be strongly considered. Functional reconstruction with tendon and nerve transfers was first described several years ago, and careful approach to the reconstruction of a mangled upper extremity can allow for a good outcome. The goal of functional reconstruction is to restore independence and ability to return to work – and careful consideration of each patient’s unique demands is imperative. The goal of this chapter is to provide an overview of the principles and different techniques and options for both nerve and tendon transfers to restore function, as well as review the expected functional outcomes from reconstruction using these transfers.