Technique of Split Flexor Carpi Ulnaris Opponensplasty

Abstract

The classic donor motor units for opponensplasty are the flexor digitorum superficialis, the extensor indicis proprius, the palmaris longus, and the abductor digiti minimi. Occasionally, all classic donor motor units are not available for the opponensplasty; a review of the literature revealed that the flexor carpi ulnaris opponensplasty has not been previously described. The surgical technique of the split flexor carpi ulnaris opponensplasty is described in the current paper along with a clinical example. The result in our patient was satisfactory with the ability to oppose the thumb tip to reach the tip of the ring finger with the wrist in neutral position.