Top Spinal Cord Inj Rehabil, 2012 · DOI: 10.1310/sci1803-197 · Published: July 1, 2012
Tendon transfer surgery can restore elbow extension in approximately 70% of persons with tetraplegia and often results in antigravity elbow extension strength. This investigation was conducted to analyze potential causes in adolescents/young adults with spinal cord injury (SCI) who experienced tendon rupture or attenuation after biceps-to-triceps transfer. Potential contributing causes of tendon rupture/attenuation after transfer include surgical technique, rehabilitation, co-contraction of the transfer, poor patient compliance, and medications.
Surgeons should carefully consider and refine their surgical techniques to minimize the risk of tendon rupture or attenuation following biceps-to-triceps transfer in SCI patients.
Rehabilitation protocols should be optimized to ensure gradual and safe progression of elbow flexion, avoiding rapid advancement that could compromise tendon healing.
Clinicians should be aware of the potential risks associated with fluoroquinolones and consider alternative antibiotics for SCI patients undergoing tendon transfer to minimize the risk of tendon rupture.