Posterior Deltoid-to-Triceps Tendon Transfer to Restore Active Elbow Extension in Patients With Tetraplegia

Tetraplegia, paralysis of all 4 limbs, is usually the result of cervical spinal cord injury. Recovery of independence is the primary goal of people with tetraplegia; this requires reconstruction of upper extremity function. Active elbow extension, necessary for a wide range of activities of daily living, is usually surgically reconstructible. The posterior deltoid-to-triceps tendon transfer was developed to restore active elbow extension; good functional results and high levels of patient satisfaction have been reported for this operation.