Reconstruction of elbow extension

Requirements​

A well-functioning, strong posterior deltoid muscle is required in order to restore elbow extension. The deltoid muscle lifts the arm to the side and rear in the shoulder joint. Posterior deltoid muscle training can be carried out before an operation.

How are operations performed?​

The operation is carried out under general anaesthetic. The posterior deltoid muscle is isolated and connected to a tendon transplant, which is usually taken from the leg. The tendon transplant is stitched to the triceps tendon, meaning that the posterior deltoid muscle is connected to the triceps tendon. ​

What happens after the operation? ​

After the operation, initially the arm must not be placed right next to the body in order to ensure that the muscle-tendon stitches are not strained. The arm that was operated on is therefore placed in a special splint for up to five weeks after the operation. During this period, you will need to continue using an electric wheelchair and your independence will be considerably restricted (e.g. during transfers). ​

Exercises for the new elbow extension will be carried out several times per day from the first day after the operation under the guidance of the specialist hand therapists. ​

The hospital stay usually lasts six weeks. ​

What are the chances of success?​

The reconstruction of elbow extension by transferring the posterior deltoid muscle is a safe and reliable procedure. In most cases, full extension of the arm over the head is achieved.

Can both sides be operated on in one procedure?​

If good prerequisites are present, such as unrestricted hip mobility, good skin condition and a stable, strong psychological situation, it is possible to reconstruct elbow extension on both arms at the same time. The first seven weeks after the operation will be challenging due to the complete dependence on helpers. However, it saves time and it is very useful to have functioning elbow extension on both arms.