Biceps-to-Triceps Transfer in Tetraplegia

Eight tetraplegic patients (13 elbows) were treated by biceps-to-triceps transfer. To avoid the risk of radial nerve injury, we chose a medial routing of the biceps. The mean follow-up after surgery was 17.8 months (range, 4-47 months). No complications were encountered. Active extension of the elbow was achieved in each case. The mean postoperative active range of motion of the elbow was 6 degrees extension and 137 degrees flexion. After the biceps-to-triceps transfer mean extension torque of the elbow was 3.7 Nm and mean flexion torque was 10 Nm. In eight elbows in which it was measured, there was a 47% reduction in elbow flexion power. Nevertheless no patient complained about that reduction, and all of them were satisfied.