Independent Function in a Tendon Transfer of the Split Flexor Carpi Ulnaris

Fiber length variability within the flexor carpi ulnaris and flexor carpi radialis muscles: implications for surgical tendon transfer

“…19 We were unable to confirm this observation in the 10 specimens, attempting to divide the FCU either proximally/distally or medially/laterally. It is possible that the previous investigators reported an anomaly that would not be apparent given our limited sample size.…”

Independent function in a split flexor carpi radialis transfer

“…Parts of the gracilis were used for facial reanimation and Manktelow and Zuker also suggested splitting this muscle into functioning neuromuscular territories. We previously reported independent function in a split transfer of the flexor carpi ulnaris 7,8 and have now applied the technique to the FCR muscle.…”

Posterior Elbow Coverage Using Whole and Split Flexor Carpi Ulnaris Flaps: A Cadaveric Study

“…This was done in the fashion previously described by Lim et al 11,14 The center of the tendon was identified distally and sharply incised with a scalpel. This incision was then carried from distal to proximal the length of the central tendon into the proximal quarter of the muscle.…”

“…Donor morbidity using the FCU as a muscle flap has been shown to be minimal, and the vascular supply to the FCU has been well described, with the dominant pedicle being a branch of the posterior recurrent ulnar artery that enters the FCU in the proximal aspect of the muscle belly. 10 More recently, the unique bipennate nature of the FCU has been described, and use of the ulnar head of the split FCU transfer has been successfully applied to tendon transfers 11,12 and to local defect coverage. 13 This allows maintenance of some of the muscle's wrist flexion and ulnar deviation function by leaving the smaller humeral head of the muscle intact.…”