Restoring Hand Function in Tetraplegia Using Combined Nerve and Tendon Transfer Surgery Comparison of Combined Nerve and Tendon Transfer Versus Traditional Tendon Transfer in People with Cervical Spinal Cord Injury

What this Trial Is About

This research focuses on individuals with tetraplegia caused by cervical spinal cord injury, which severely limits their ability to use their hands and perform daily activities. It aims to compare two surgical approaches to restore hand function a combined nerve and tendon transfer procedure CNaTT and the traditional tendon transfer surgery alone. The study addresses a significant gap by evaluating whether the combined approach, which may improve hand opening and grip function, offers better clinical outcomes than the traditional method. The combined procedure involves first performing a nerve transfer called Bertelli S-PIN, which aims to restore active opening of the hand by rerouting nerves to paralyzed muscles. This is followed by tendon transfer surgeries to restore strong finger and thumb flexion for grip. The traditional approach uses tendon transfers alone to restore grip without active hand opening. Both procedures involve specific surgical techniques and rehabilitation protocols, including immobilization and training phases to enhance muscle strength and function. Participants will be assessed through various tests, including the Cylinder test to measure hand function and grip strength assessments using devices like the JAMAR dynamometer and Pinch Gauge. Quality of life and satisfaction with surgery will also be evaluated using validated questionnaires. The study includes patients aged 15 to 55 with recent cervical spinal cord injuries and will monitor outcomes one year after surgery to determine the effectiveness of the procedures in improving hand function and independence.

Combined Nerve and Tendon Transfer for the Restoration of Hand Function in Individuals With Tetraplegia