Up to date diagnosis and treatment of massive irreparable cuff tears: Results of the survey of the U45 ESSKA Committee.

PURPOSE: Irreparable rotator cuff tears are disabling and can severely affect daily life activities, especially when young and active patients are involved. The definition is still debated, and they can have several clinical presentations. The treatment depends on the clinical presentation and the patient's age. METHODS: The survey was developed by the ESSKA U45 Committee and was uploaded on the ESSKA website. Fifty-seven questionnaires were returned. Several aspects of the diagnosis and treatment of massive irreparable cuff tears were investigated. Moreover, treatment options for specific clinical scenarios were given for posterior-superior and anterior-superior cuff tears in young and old patients. RESULTS: Fatty degeneration of the muscles was the most common criterion to define an irreparable tear (59.7%). In young patients with external rotation with the arm at side lag, partial repair of the cuff was the most common option (41.8%); in case of external rotation with the arm at side + external rotation at 90° of abduction lag without pseudoparalysis, the most common option was partial repair of the cuff + latissimus dorsi or lower trapezius transfer (39.3%), and in case of external rotation with the arm at side + external rotation at 90° of abduction lag with pseudoparalysis, partial repair of the cuff + latissimus dorsi or lower trapezius transfer was still the most common option (25.5%). The same scenarios in old patients yielded the following results: reverse prosthesis (49.1%), reverse prosthesis (44.6%) and reverse prosthesis ± latissimus dorsi or lower trapezius transfer (44.6%), respectively. CONCLUSIONS: The present survey clearly confirms that biological options (partial cuff repairs and tendon transfers) are the reference in the case of young patients with deficient cuffs (both posterior and anterior). Reverse shoulder prosthesis is the most common treatment option in old patients in all clinical scenarios. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV.

Endoscopic peroneus brevis tendon transfer for chronic ruptures of the Achilles tendon: surgical technique.

Chronic Achilles tendon rupture is usually defined as a rupture diagnosed 4-6 weeks after injury. The management of chronic Achilles tendon rupture (CATR) is a topic of hot debate, and no consensus has been achieved. Surgical management of CATR is recommended. Several approaches, techniques, and grafts have been described. Open techniques carry a high risk of wound breakdown, infection, and necessitate long rehabilitation times. Surgical techniques with smaller incisions to reduce the risk of scar fibrosis, pain, and infection are becoming common. The ipsilateral tendon of the hallux flexor longus and the peroneus brevis is commonly used. Endoscopic transfer of the peroneus brevis tendon is an innovative alternative to other procedures, with comparable results of other autografts even in elite athletes. The tendon of the peroneus brevis is harvested by tendoscopy before performing a calcaneal tendon endoscopy and fixing the graft in a calcaneal tunnel using an interference screw. After surgery, an anterior splint is placed for 3 weeks with immediate forefoot weight bearing. The rehabilitation starts on the 15th postoperative day.

Increased latissimus dorsi and teres major muscle volume after anterior transfer for irreparable anterior superior rotator cuff tear: correlation with improved internal rotation strength.

INTRODUCTION: While the well-established correlation between increased muscle volume and enhanced muscle strength is widely recognized, there have been no studies assessing volumetric muscle changes in transfer surgery in the shoulder. This study aimed to evaluate changes in transferred muscle volume and their clinical implications in anterior latissimus dorsi and teres major (aLDTM) tendon transfer in patients with anterior superior irreparable rotator cuff tears (ASIRCTs). MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study retrospectively examined 40 patients who underwent aLDTM tendon transfers for ASIRCTs between August 2018 and January 2022. Using ImageJ software, the LDTM muscle was segmented in T2-weighted oblique axial images, and total muscle volume (tLDTMV) of both immediate and postoperative 1-year were calculated. Pearson correlation analysis was used to determine the correlation between ΔtLDTMV and ΔASES scores, Δactive-ROM, and Δstrength. RESULTS: The current study revealed an 11.4% increase in tLDTMV at 1-year postoperative. Patients were grouped based on postoperative ASES score: Group 1 (Optimal, n = 17) and Group 2 (Suboptimal, n = 23). Although tLDTMVimmediate postoperative values were similar between groups (P = 0.954), tLDTMV1-year postoperative value was significantly higher in Group 1 compared to Group 2 (P = 0.021). In correlation analysis, ΔtLDTMV showed significant correlations with ΔASES score (r = 0.525, P < 0.001), ΔaROM of forward elevation (FE) (r = 0.476, P = 0.002), ΔaROM of internal rotation (IR) at back (r = 0.398, P = 0.011), Δstrength of FE (r = 0.328, P = 0.039), Δ strength of IR at 90° abduction (r = 0.331, P = 0.037), and IR at side (r = 0.346, P = 0.029). CONCLUSIONS: Significant increase in tLDTMV was observed at 1-year postoperative for ASIRCT patients. Notably, greater ΔtLDTMV exhibited a correlation with better ASES scores, increased aROM and strength in both FE and IR. Nevertheless, further research is required by employing more robust standardized measurement tools and a larger sample size.

Options for Restoring Finger Extension in Mangled Forearm Injuries.

Restoration of finger extension in mutilating hand injuries is crucial for restoring prehension and independent use of the hand. Patients often express desire to restore finger extension once finger flexion is achieved. However, the extensive forearm injury precludes use of any of conventional donors like the wrist or finger flexors for transfer to restore finger extension. Two patients with sequelae of mangled forearm injuries, underwent biceps and long head of triceps transfer to the finger extensors to improve opening up of the fingers. We discuss the treatment considerations while planning these transfers and provide the technical details, rehabilitation and outcome of these patients. Both the patients expressed dramatic improvement of their hand function and were satisfied with the outcome. Biceps and long head of triceps could serve as an effective second-line donor for restoration of finger extension when the conventional donors are not available. Level of Evidence: Level V (Therapeutic).

Evaluation of the ankle function after Achilles tendon resection: a retrospective clinical study.

INTRODUCTION: The Achilles tendon is the strongest tendon in the human body and has the function of plantar ankle flexion. When the tendon is exposed, the peritendineum has been breached and the thick avascular tendon colonized with bacteria, a complete resection of the tendon may be indicated to achieve infection control and facilitate wound closure. The Achilles tendon reconstruction is not mandatory, as the plantar flexion of the ankle joint is assumed by the remaining flexor hallucis longus, flexor digitorum longus and tibialis posterior muscles. Our study aimed to evaluate the impact of Achilles tendon resection without reconstruction on leg function and quality of life. MATERIAL AND METHODS: We retrospectively evaluated all patients who were treated with an Achilles tendon resection between January 2017 and June 2022 in our quaternary institution. After evaluating the data, the patients who survived and were not amputated were contacted for re-evaluation, which included isokinetic strength measurement of both ankle joints, evaluation of the ankle range of motion and collection of several functional scores. RESULTS: Thirty patients were included in the retrospective study, with a mean age of 70.3 years, including 11 women and 19 men. The most frequent cause of the infection was leg ulcer (43.3%), followed by open tendon suture (23.3%). No tendon reconstruction was performed. Fifteen patients could be gained for reevaluation. The average difference in ankle flexion torque on the injured side compared to the healthy side at 30 degrees/second was 57.49% (p = 0.003) and at 120 degrees/second was 53.13% (p = 0.050) while the difference in power was 45.77% (p = 0.025) at 30 degrees/second and 38.08% (p = 0.423) at 120 degrees/second. The follow-up time was between 4 and 49 months and a positive correlation could be determined between the time elapsed from surgery and the ankle joint strength. There was a significant loss of range of motion on the operated side compared to the healthy side: 37.30% for plantar flexion, 24.56% for dorsal extension, 27.79% for pronation and 24.99% for supination. The average Lepillhati Score was 68.33, while the average American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Score was 74.53. CONCLUSION: The complete Achilles tendon resection leaves the patient with satisfactory leg function and an almost normal gait. Especially in elderly, multimorbid patients, straightforward tendon resection and wound closure provide fast infection control with acceptable long-term results. Further prospective studies should compare the ankle function and gait in patients with and without Achilles tendon reconstruction after complete resection.

Editorial Commentary: Lower Trapezius Transfer May Be Indicated for Surgical Management of Massive Irreparable Rotator Cuff Tears in Younger, Non-Arthritic Patients.

Although shoulder rotator cuff repair fixation constructs and suture anchor design have evolved, repair of massive or functionally irreparable tears historically has relied on tendon mobilization and compression, optimizing footprint biology, and attempting a tension-free repair. However, despite these efforts, rates of failure of complete healing may be high, ranging from 20% to 94%. This has led to a search for alternative approaches, including bridging grafts, subacromial balloons, superior capsular reconstructions, biologic tuberoplasties, bursal acromial grafts, and, ultimately, renewed interest in tendon transfers. The latissimus dorsi transfer was traditionally a preferred tendon-transfer technique for posterosuperior massive cuff tears, but inconsistent outcomes have resulted in declining popularity. Recently, the lower trapezius transfer (LTT) has gained acceptance for the treatment of posterosuperior tears, particularly with external rotation weakness and lag signs. The LTT is biomechanically superior to the latissimus dorsi transfer, offering a more native vector of pull and in-phase activation. LTT could be indicated for younger patients with massive cuff tears. However, LTT is relatively contraindicated in patients with cuff tear arthropathy; combined loss of elevation and external rotation; irreparable subscapularis tear; teres minor involvement; and/or those of advanced age or unable to comply with rigid rehabilitation guidelines.

Editorial Commentary: Subacromial Balloon Spacer Is an Alternative to Rotator Cuff Repair in Older, Lower-Demand Patients Who Prioritize Pain Relief and Faster Recovery Over Strength Restoration.

The subacromial balloon spacer was originally designed to treat massive irreparable rotator cuff tears in patients with pain but preserved function, and favorable results have been reported. However, surgeons have expanded its application to include use as an adjunct for salvage procedures such as superior capsular reconstruction and tendon transfer, as a delivery device for steroids or biologics, and as an augmentation in the setting of primary or revision rotator cuff tear. When adapting technology to new techniques, one must ask, What is the basis by which we can expect success? In rotator cuff repair, the technology of anchor, suture, and repair configurations is such that mechanical failure is rare. Failure occurs because of lack of biological healing. It is hard to imagine how the balloon may improve biology. In addition, an intact tendon is not required for acceptable patient function or pain relief. The balloon spacer is an alternative to repair in properly selected older, lower-demand patients who prioritize pain relief over strength restoration in exchange for faster recovery.

Joint-preserving treatment for global irreparable rotator cuff tears: combined anterior Latissimus dorsi and Teres major tendon transfer.

INTRODUCTION: Treating global irreparable rotator cuff tears (GIRCTs) that involve both antero-and postero-superior cuff tendon tears could be a challenging problem. There has been limited joint-preserving treatment options in high-demand patients with minimal glenohumeral arthritis. The study aims to assess the clinical outcome of combined anterior latissimus dorsi and teres major tendon (aLDTM) transfer for patients with both GIRCTs and minimal glenohumeral arthritis. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This retrospective study included patients who underwent combined aLDTM transfer for GIRCTs between 2018 May and 2020 October. Clinical outcomes include pain VAS, Constant, American Shoulder and Elbow Society (ASES), University of California Los Angeles (UCLA), activities of daily living requiring active internal rotation (ADLIR) score, active range of motion (aROM), strength, rates of pseudoparalysis or pseudoparesis reversal and return to work. Radiographic assessment included the acromiohumeral distance (AHD), Hamada grade, and transferred tendon integrity at final follow-up. RESULTS: 23 patients (mean age: 64.7 ± 5.9 years [55-74]) were included and the mean follow-up period was 28.2 ± 4.3 [24‒36] months. Postoperatively, VAS, Constant, ASES, UCLA, and ADLIR scores significantly improved at final follow-up (P < .001). Postoperative aROM was significantly improved in forward elevation (FE) to 129° ± 29°, abduction (ABD) to 105° ± t3°, and internal rotation (IR) at back to 5.9 ± 2.5. Strength of both FE and IR were also significantly improved (P < .001). Patients with preoperative pseudoparalysis (2 of 4 patients) and pseudoparesis (6 of 6 patients) experienced a reversal. No significant change in AHD and hamada grade was confirmed at final follow-up. 3 patients experienced partial tear of the transferred tendon. CONCLUSIONS: In this study, we found significant improvement in clinical outcomes with no significant progression of arthritis by final follow-up. The aLDTM transfer could be an alternative choice of joint-preserving treatment option for young and active patients with GIRCTs and minimal glenohumeral arthritis. However, large and long-term studies should be conducted to establish its adequacy. STUDY DESIGN: Case series. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: IV.

Injury of flexor halluics longus tendon in amateur marathon runners results in abnormal plantar pressure distribution: observational study.

OBJECTIVE: To analyze the changes of plantar pressure in amateur marathon runners with flexor halluics longus (FHL) tendon injury using the Medtrack-Gait plantar pressure measurement system, and to explore whether the plantar pressure data can be used as an index for the diagnosis of injury. METHODS: A total of 39 healthy amateur marathon runners without any ankle joint symptoms were recruited. Dynamic and static plantar pressure data were measured using the pressure plate of Medtrack-Gait. According to MRI imaging findings, whether the FHL tendon was injured or not was judged, and the dynamic and static data were divided into the injury group and control group. The data with statistically significant differences between the two groups were used to make the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. RESULT: The maximum contact area (PA) of the first metatarsal(M1) region, the maximum load-bearing peak value (PW) and the time pressure integral (PMPTI) of the second metatarsal(M2) region in the injury group were lower than those in the control group, respectively (P < 0.05). The maximum contact area (PA) of the fifth metatarsal(M5) region was higher than that in the control group (P < 0.05). The area under curve (AUC) value of the ROC curve of the PA of M1 region, the PW and PMPTI of M2 region were statistically (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: FHL tendon injury resulted in decreased PA in M1, decreased PW and PMPTI in M2, and increased PA in the M5 region, suggesting that FHL tendon injury resulted in a force shift from the medial to the lateral side of the foot. The PA of M1, PW and PMPTI of M2 have certain diagnostic value for early FHL injury in amateur marathon runners.

Superior Capsular Reconstruction Versus Middle Trapezius Tendon Transfer for Isolated Irreparable Supraspinatus Tendon Tears: Static Versus Dynamic Reconstruction.

BACKGROUND: Both superior capsular reconstruction (SCR) and middle trapezius tendon (MTT) transfer can be performed in nonarthritic young and active patients with isolated irreparable supraspinatus tendon tears (IISTTs). However, to our knowledge, no comparative clinical studies have been conducted on these procedures. PURPOSE: To evaluate and compare the clinical and radiological outcomes of SCR and arthroscopic-assisted MTT transfer in patients with IISTTs. STUDY DESIGN: Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3. METHODS: A total of 60 patients with IISTTs were categorized into 2 groups according to the surgical procedure-Group S underwent SCR (n = 34); Group M underwent MTT transfer (n = 26). The clinical outcomes included the visual analog scale score for pain, active shoulder range of motion, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score, and University of California, Los Angeles, shoulder score. Radiological outcomes included the assessment of the acromiohumeral distance, progression of cuff tear arthropathy (Hamada grade), subacromial bone erosion, and graft failure. RESULTS: The mean follow-up time was 39.3 ± 5.2 months (range, 26-59 months) and 37.6 ± 9.8 months (range, 27-54 months) in Group S and Group M, respectively. Significant improvements in clinical outcomes were observed in both groups, while the active forward flexion (148.2°± 24.1° vs 165.9°± 8.7°; P = .003) and abduction (131°± 37.3° vs 152.5°± 17.9°; P = .035) were significantly higher in Group M at the final follow-up. No significant differences were found in the postoperative Constant, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons, and University of California, Los Angeles, shoulder scores between the 2 groups. Radiologically, although no difference was found in the Hamada grade at the final follow-up between the 2 groups (P = .143), the rates of acromial wear (58.8% vs 15.4%; P < .001) and graft retear (47.1% vs 7.7%; P < .001) were significantly higher in Group S than in Group M. CONCLUSION: Both SCR and MTT transfer improved the overall clinical outcomes of IISTTs postoperatively, whereas MTT transfer was superior to SCR in terms of active forward flexion and abduction range of motion. Although higher rates of graft failure and subacromial bone erosion were observed in Group S, no difference was found in the clinical scores between the 2 groups at the short-term follow-up. However, further well-structured, prolonged comparative trials should be conducted in the future.

Endoscopic assisted flexor digitorum longus transfer in flexible flatfoot.

BACKGROUND: Posterior tibial tendon insufficiency is the commonest cause of adult flexible flatfoot. Transfer of the flexor digitorum longus (FDL) has been described a therapeutic arsenal in flexible flat feet and posterior tibial tendon disorders. It is often combined with bony procedure (open or percutaneous calcaneal osteotomy). METHODS: We describe a technique and the steps endoscopic approach of FDL transfer. RESULTS: The procedure is able to be performed safely and reproducible under perfect viewing CONCLUSION: In the future with a clinical study investigating, we purpose the results of such surgery in a cohort of patients with flexible flatfoot. Level IV Therapeutic study: case serie. No funding was received for this research project.

Changes in in vivo three dimensional shoulder kinematics following latissimus dorsi tendon transfer for irreparable posterosuperior rotator cuff tears: A systematic review with meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Latissimus dorsi transfer is a surgical procedure that can be used for treating posterosuperior rotator cuff tears. The procedure leads to improved shoulder function via alterations in the force vector couple around the shoulder. However, there is still no consensus on the biomechanical changes resulting from latissimus dorsi transfer. METHODS: We performed a systematic review of the literature on 3D motion analysis studies evaluating the effects of latissimus dorsi transfer on shoulder kinematics. The available data on segment and joint range of motion was extracted and subject to meta-analysis when consistent across the studies. FINDINGS: Our meta-analysis of pre- and post-operative studies revealed a significant improvement in forward flexion and abduction following latissimus dorsi transfer. When comparing the latissimus transferred shoulder with an uninjured contralateral side the meta-analysis found no significant difference in flexion range of motion, while abduction and external rotation was significantly higher in the uninjured shoulders. The overall risk of bias was moderate to high. High heterogeneity was found in the reporting of data, which limited our ability to perform a meta-analysis across the studies for all interest outcomes. INTERPRETATIONS: Our findings suggest that latissimus dorsi transfer for posterosuperior rotator cuff tears effectively improves shoulder flexion and abduction. External rotation is also expected to improve but at inferior levels as compared to the unaffected side. However, the heterogeneity of the reported data on 3D motion analysis studies highlights the need for better standardization in research and reporting as to conclude the impact of different joints.

Management of irreparable subscapularis tears: Current concepts.

Primary repair of acute subscapularis (SSC) tears provides excellent results, but tendon retraction, muscle atrophy, fatty infiltration, and humeral head migration may render a more chronic tear irreparable. These irreparable SSC tears present a diagnostic and treatment challenge for orthopaedic surgeons. Careful physical examination and imaging evaluation can help to distinguish those with reparable versus irreparable tears, but they are still not very reliable due to the methodological limitations of current evidence. Therefore, future research using 3D and quantitative measurement techniques is necessary to better predict the irreparability of the SSC. When conservative treatment of an irreparable SSC tear fails, reversed shoulder arthroplasty has been established as the preferred treatment option for older, low-demand patients with arthropathy, providing reliable improvements in pain and function. In younger patients without significant arthropathy, musculotendinous transfers are the treatment of choice. The pectoralis major transfer is historically the most frequently performed procedure and provides improved range of motion and pain relief, but fails to adequately restore strength and shoulder function. The latissimus dorsi transfer has gained increased interest over the last few years due to its biomechanical superiority, and early clinical studies suggest improved outcomes as well. More recently, anterior capsular reconstruction has been proposed as an alternative to musculotendinous transfers, but clinical data are completely lacking. Future high-quality randomised controlled trials are necessary to reliably compare the different musculotendinous transfers and anterior capsular reconstruction.

Comparison of Staple, Anchor, and Tenodesis Screw for Posterior Tibialis Tendon Fixation: A Biomechanical Analysis.

Various posterior tibialis tendon fixation techniques are described in literature. Suture anchor, staple and tenodesis screws are widely used for posterior tibialis tendon transfer, but their stiffness and the maximal ultimate failure load were not tested before. We aimed to compare the initial ultimate failure load and stiffnesses of suture anchor, staple and tenodesis screws on bovine tendon fixation to bovine metaphyseal bone. Thirty-five fresh bovine ankle joints and hooves were obtained from a local abattoir. Metatarsals bones with long extensor tendons were harvested. Staple group had 15, suture anchor group had 10, and tenodesis screw group had 10 samples. All fixations were tested with Instron® ElectroPuls® E10000 Test Instrument. Ultimate failure load and failure location were noted. Staple group's median ultimate failure load was 210.03 N (IQR: 133.43), suture anchor group's was 124.33 N (IQR: 63.67), and tenodesis screw group's was 394.46 N (IQR:115.09). Median stiffness of the staple group was 19.87 N/m (IQR: 15.29); the tenodesis screw group's was 20.28 N/m (IQR: 6.18), the anchor group's was 8.54 N/m (IQR: 4.35). Staples' failure occurred on tendon-staple interface, while suture anchors' occurred on anchor-suture interface and tenodesis screws' occurred on tendon-suture interface. Tenodesis screws' ultimate failure load was the highest (tenodesis vs anchor and staple p < .001 and p = .032, respectively). Staple fixation is less expensive than the other methods and can provide sufficient fixation strength but was weaker than the tenodesis screw fixation. Staples are still a good choice for tendon to bone fixation, whereas the suture anchors provide lower fixation strength at a higher cost.

Tendon transfers in cerebral palsy: art or science?

Tendon transfers in cerebral palsy are commonly described as a method to improve function in the upper limb. The field can be considered by some to be more of an art than science due to the unique challenges involved, which include poor volitional control and spasticity. Surgical outcomes can be uncertain and, in certain circumstances, worsened. This presentation looks at the rationale behind tendon transfers for patients with cerebral palsy and the application of this rationale (science vs. art) to a philosophy of treatment.

Outcomes after arthroscopically assisted lower trapezius transfer with Achilles tendon allograft.

BACKGROUND: Lower trapezius tendon transfer is 1 option to improve pain and function with massive irreparable rotator cuff tears. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) evaluation of tendon healing with the procedure has not yet been reported. The purpose of this study was to evaluate early tendon transfer healing using postoperative MRI scans and to assess early clinical outcomes in patients after arthroscopically assisted lower trapezius tendon transfer (AALTT) for massive irreparable rotator cuff tears. METHODS: This was a single institution retrospective review of consecutive patients with massive irreparable rotator cuff tears who underwent AALTT with a single surgeon from January 2017 to July 2020 with a minimum 6-month follow-up. Patient information including age, sex, follow-up, prior surgical history, and type of work (sedentary or labor-intensive) was recorded. Preoperative and postoperative range of motion, external rotation strength, presence of a lag sign, and pain visual analog scale data were extracted from medical records. Patient-reported outcomes were extracted from patient charts. Six-month postoperative MRIs were reviewed for tendon transfer healing at both the greater tuberosity and the trapezius-allograft interface. RESULTS: A total of 19 patients met inclusion criteria with average age 56.7 (range, 29-72 years). Of these patients, 17 (89.5%) were male. The average follow-up was 14.6 (range, 6-45) months. Fifteen (78.9%) patients had unsuccessful previous rotator cuff repair. Six-month MRI demonstrated complete healing of the transferred tendon in 17 of 19 patients (89.5%). There were significant improvements in postoperative pain visual analog scale (5.9 ± 2 vs. 1.8 ± 2), ASES score (44.6 ± 18 vs. 71.2 ± 24), and Patient Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System Physical (46.3 ± 6 vs. 51.3 ± 11) and in external rotation motion (10.5 ± 17° vs. 40.5 ± 13°) and strength (2.8/5 ± 1 vs. 4.7/5 ± 0.5) at final follow-up. All patients with a preoperative external rotation lag sign had reversal of their lag sign at final follow-up (15/15). Of 17 work-eligible patients, 13 (76.4%) were able to return to work. CONCLUSION: In this series, AALTT showed a high rate of healing of the transferred tendon on MRI by 6 months postoperatively. The current findings of a high rate of early tendon transfer healing are consistent with the good early and mid-term outcomes that have been observed in AALTT and provide support for surgeon and patient expectations, postoperative rehabilitation, and return to work following AALTT for massive posterior superior rotator cuff tears.

Comparison of nerve versus tendon transfer for radial nerve palsy.

OBJECTIVE: This study aims to investigate the choice of intervention time and operation mode between nerve and tendon transfer for the treatment of radial nerve palsy (RNP). METHODS: 46 RNP patients underwent nerve transfer (n = 22) and tendon transfer (n = 24). The intraoperative blood loss, main incision length, operation duration, and length of hospital stay and follow-up period of patients in these two groups were recorded and compared. The range of motion (ROM) of the elbow, wrist, fingers, and thumb, the hand grip and pinch strength, the Disabilities of Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) and the 36-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36) scores were measured and compared preoperatively and postoperatively between the two groups. RESULTS: The ROM of thumb and the hand grip strength of patients in the nerve transfer group were greater than that in the tendon transfer (P < 0.05). Both of the two groups indicated significant improvements in the ROM of elbow, wrist, finger, thumb and the hand grip and pinch strength (P < 0.05) postoperatively. The DASH scores decreased significantly at 6 months (P < 0.05) and 12 months (P < 0.05) after surgery in both groups, while the postoperative SF-36 scores significantly increased (P < 0.05). There was no significant difference in postoperative DASH and SF-36 scores between the two groups (P > 0.05). CONCLUSION: In summary, both nerve and tendon transfer techniques are effective treatments for RNP. Nerve transfer is particularly advantageous for early RNP, while tendon transfer is suitable for patients with radial nerve injury more than one year.