Brachial flexor tendon transfer is a surgical procedure used to restore hand function in cases of severe nerve injuries or conditions where the normal function of hand muscles is compromised. It involves the transfer of functional tendons from one part of the arm to another to compensate for the loss of function elsewhere.

In this procedure:
• Indications: Brachial flexor tendon transfer is often considered for individuals who have suffered nerve injuries, particularly to the upper part of the arm, such as a brachial plexus injury, where there is significant loss of hand and forearm muscle function.
• Tendon Selection Typically, tendons that control less critical movements are chosen as donors. For example, tendons responsible for less critical finger or wrist movements may be used.
• Surgical Process: During the surgery, tendons are taken from their original attachment and rerouted to new attachment sites to compensate for the lost function. This involves carefully rerouting and reattaching tendons to restore hand function.
• Recovery and Rehabilitation: Post-surgery, extensive rehabilitation is required to regain strength and function in the affected hand. Physical therapy and occupational therapy play a crucial role in maximizing the outcome of the surgery.
• Expected Outcome: The success of the surgery depends on various factors, including the severity of the initial injury, the chosen tendon transfers, and the patient’s dedication to postoperative rehabilitation. While it can significantly improve hand function, it may not restore complete function to pre-injury levels.
• Risks and Complications: As with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks such as infection, loss of range of motion, nerve damage, tendon rupture, or failure of the transferred tendons to function adequately.

Brachial flexor tendon transfer is a complex procedure that requires careful planning and skilled surgical intervention. It aims to restore some degree of hand function in cases where normal function has been severely compromised due to nerve injuries or other conditions affecting hand muscles. An evaluation by a qualified hand surgeon or orthopedic specialist is necessary to determine if this procedure is appropriate and to discuss the potential risks and benefits.