- Theory:
- flexor-pronator muscles arising from medial epicondyle are transposed to more proximal point on the humerus so that their moment for
elbow flexion is incresed enough to permit active control;
- muscles originating from the medial epicondyle (Pronator Teres, FCR, PL, & FCU) must have normal or near normal power to achieve a
useful result from flexorplasty;
- although most patients can flex thru a useful range against gravity, it's rare for pts to be able to lift > 5 pds following transfer;
- Exam:
- pts who already have weak elbow flexion are most likely to have satisfactory results;
- ask pt to flex forearm after flexing wrist & fingers & pronating forearm
Long-term results of the Steindler flexorplasty.
Elbow flexorplasty: a comparison between latissimus dorsi transfer and Steindler flexorplasty.