Moment arm and force-generating capacity of the extensor carpi ulnaris after transfer to the extensor carpi radialis brevis

Abstract

Tendon transfers to the extensor carpi radialis brevis (ECRB) are often performed to augment wrist extension. This study was conducted to analyze how transfer of the extensor carpi ulnaris (ECU) to the ECRB affects the moment arms, force-generating capacity, and moment-generating capacity of the ECU over a range of wrist flexion-extension. A graphics-based computer model was developed from anatomic measurements of the muscle-tendon paths before and after transfer. This model calculates the lengths and moment arms of the muscles over a range of wrist flexion-extension and represents the muscles' force-generating characteristics from previous measurements of their physiologic cross-sectional areas, fiber lengths, and pennation angles. Analysis of the computer model revealed that the maximum isometric extension moment of the ECU at the neutral wrist position increased from 0.50 N-m to 1.72 N-m after transfer to the ECRB. The deviation moment shifted from 2.72 N-m ulnar deviation to 1.42 N-m radial deviation. The extension moment generated by the ECU varied more with wrist flexion angle after transfer due to its broadened operating range on the muscle force-length relationship. The simulations highlight the need for proper intraoperative tensioning of the ECU to maximize the force-generating potential of the transferred muscle over the functional range of motion.