Nerve Transfers for Radial Nerve Palsy: History, Outcomes, Alternatives, and Surgical Techniques

Abstract

Radial nerve palsy is a devastating condition that may present with a combination of loss of elbow extension, wrist extension, or finger extension depending on the level of injury. These palsies may arise from myriad etiologies, ranging from spinal cord and brachial plexus injuries to idiopathic and inflammatory conditions. The purpose of this chapter is to present nerve transfers as an emerging approach to radial nerve deficits. We also present principles and evidence for alternative treatment strategies, including primary repair, nerve grafting, and tendon transfers.