Factors affecting functional outcome of opponens replacement in median nerve paralysis in leprosy.

Abstract

In this study, the factors affecting functional outcomes of opponens replacement in median nerve paralysis in leprosy, were investigated. Fifty six patients who underwent opponens transfer between 1995 and 2001 were included in the study. The average duration of follow up is 7.3 years with a range of 4-10 years. Functional assessments were done through assessment of grip strength, pinch strengths and fine manipulation and the results were interpreted using Sundararaj (1984) criteria. 76.6% had excellent or good results, 13.3% fair and 10.1% poor results. Pinch strength, grip strength and fine manipulation showed improvement after surgery. Logistic regression analysis showed that duration of paralysis had a significant independent effect on the outcome.