Nerve Transfers for the Restoration of Wrist, Finger, and Thumb Extension After High Radial Nerve Injury

Abstract

High radial nerve injury is a common pattern of peripheral nerve injury most often associated with orthopedic trauma. Nerve transfers to the wrist and finger extensors, often from the median nerve, offer several advantages when compared to nerve repair or grafting and tendon transfer. In this article, we discuss the forearm anatomy pertinent to performing these nerve transfers and review the literature surrounding nerve transfers for wrist, finger, and thumb extension. A suggested algorithm for management of acute traumatic high radial nerve palsy is offered, and our preferred surgical technique for treatment of high radial nerve palsy is provided.

Keywords: Finger extension; Nerve transfer; Radial nerve injury; Thumb extension; Wrist extension.