ABSTRACT
Objective To compare the result differences of different dynamic nerves transferring to different segments of the radial nerve. Methods From 1997 to 2000, different ways of intercostal nerves or contralataral C 7 transfering to different segments of the radial nerves were carried out in 36 cases with total avulsed brachial plexus injuries that were followed up for average 42.39 months. Four-fold table was selected to statistically calculate the effective rate of muscle strength recovery. Results The total effective rate was 56% (20/36). The effective rate of the functional rehabilitation of elbow extension was 5/8 in the group with neurotization to radial nerve trunk and 4/4 in the group with neurotization to branches innervating the triceps brachii muscle of radial nerve. The highest effective rate up to 75% (9/12) of the functional rehabilitation of wrist and digit extension belonged to the group with contralateral C 7 transferring to the radial nerve segment in the humeral spiral groove where branches innervating the triceps brachii muscle had already diverged. Conclusions The way of neurotization to radial nerve trunk and to branches innervating the triceps brachii muscle of the radial nerve can win good functional rehabilitation of elbow extension. Contralataral C 7 transfering to the radial nerve segment in the humeral spiral groove ranks the best way for function recovery of the wrist extension. Age below 30 years and operation interval less than 12 months are helpful for functional rehabilitation of the radial nerve.