RESUMO
Objective To investigate the efficacy of using the extensor carpi ulnaris as the motor tendon in correcting claw hand deformity and improving hand function.Methods A total of 12 patients with ulnar nerve palsy and claw finger deformity were included into this study from October, 2009 to September, 2011.Results All ceses had an average followed-up of 15.5 months, ranging from 12 months to 24 months.According to the Total Active Movement (TAM) score, there were 4 cases receiving excellent results, 6 cases receiving good results and 2 cases receiving fair results.The claw finger deformity was corrected and intrinsic hand function improved significantly.The average increase in grip strength was 41％ at the 12 months post operation, compared with the preoperative data (P ＜ 0.05).The mean DASH score decreased from 53.6 ± 11.4 preoperatively to 20.4 ± 6.8 postoperatively (P ＜ 0.05).Conclusion The technique of using the extensor carpi ulnaris as the motor tendon is effective in correcting claw fingers, increasing the grip strength and improving overall hand function.This surgical procedure is also beneficial for patients accompanied by the median nerve injury.