Article

Despite being a routine part of the early surgical management of brachial plexus
injury, nerve transfers have only recently been used as a reconstructive option
for those with tetraplegia. Subsequently, there is limited published literature
on the rehabilitation theories and techniques for optimizing outcomes in this
population. This article seeks to address this void by presenting our centers'
working model for rehabilitation after nerve transfers for individuals with
tetraplegia. The model is illustrated with the example of the rehabilitation
process after a supinator nerve to posterior interosseous nerve transfer. This
nerve transfer reconstructs wrist, finger, and thumb extension. The topics
covered in the model include the following: patient selection and presurgical
planning/intervention, managing the postoperative healing phase of an individual
who is wheelchair dependent, maximizing motor reeducation, increasing muscle
strength, and ensuring use in functional tasks. This article provides a platform
for further development and collaboration to improve the outcomes of patients who
undergo nerve transfers after tetraplegia.
CI - Copyright (c) 2016 American Congress of Rehabilitation Medicine. Published by
Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Langue : ANGLAIS