Pectoralis major transfer for paralysis of elbow flexion in children

Abstract

Seven pectoralis major transfers in children suffering from bilateral paralysis of elbow flexion due to arthrogryposis or to trauma are reported. A technique is described in which the muscle is mobilised from the clavicle to allow the tendon of insertion to be attached to the biceps tendon at the elbow. The biceps tendon was found to be present and could be mobilised forwards in all the arthrogrypotic elbows. Subjectively, the results were considered by patients or parents to be very good in six cases and fair in one. Elbow flexion power against gravity and against some resistance was achieved in all patients except one. The overall function was very good in one elbow, good in two, fair in three and poor in only one. The merits of the various procedures described for the restoration of elbow flexion in arthrogryposis are discussed. It is concluded that total pectoralis major transfer by the method described here has given the best results.