Functional hand surgery following tetraplegia

• Published in: Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Vol. 77; no. 1; pp. 86 - 94
• Main Authors: Waters, Robert L., Sie, Ien H., Gellman, Harris, Tognella, Monica
• Format: Book Review Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: New York, NY Elsevier Inc 1996; Elsevier
• Subjects: Biological and medical sciences; Electromyography; Fingers - physiology; Hand - surgery; Hand Strength - physiology; Humans; Isometric Contraction - physiology; Medical sciences; Movement - physiology; Muscle, Skeletal - surgery; Orthopedic surgery; Patient Selection; Pronation - physiology; Quadriplegia - classification; Quadriplegia - physiopathology; Quadriplegia - rehabilitation; Quality of Life; Space life sciences; Surgery (general aspects). Transplantations, organ and tissue grafts. Graft diseases; Tendon Transfer - methods; Human; Tetraplegia; Nervous system diseases; Motor system disorder; Diseases of the osteoarticular system; Review; Trauma; Functional capacity; Treatment; Disease of the hand; Surgery; Complication; Technique; Neurological disorder
• ISSN: 0003-9993; 1532-821X
• DOI: 10.1016/S0003-9993(96)90227-0

Traumatic tetraplegia is an overwhelming injury often requiring permanent adaptations by patients and families. The greatest potential for improving the quality of life lies with rehabilitation and restoration of upper extremity function. Reconstructive hand surgery following tetraplegia is individualized based on functional level and can significantly improve hand function and quality of life. Careful selection and evaluation of surgical candidates in combination with an experienced surgeon and hand rehabilitation team are critical for a successful outcome.