Flexion and supination deformities of the elbow in tetraplegics

Abstract

Fixed flexion and supination deformities of the elbow occur occasionally in tetraplegics. The patients in whom this was seen were those who following injury had a neurological level at C5 and who subsequently developed radial wrist extension and brachioradialis function. They were generally patients who spent long hours with their elbows flexed and supinated.A simple effective method of biceps tenotomy and plaster correction is described. Recurrence of deformity was seen if the flexion supination posture was continued. Strength of elbow flexion was not reduced. Patients maintained correction if they refrained from poor elbow posture and wore a simple plastic splint. The procedure of correction is not difficult and because of its simplicity it can be repeated if deformity recurs. © 1977 Nature Publishing Group.