Objective
The aim of this study was to present the results of correction of wrist flexion deformity in a series of young children with hemiplegic cerebral palsy (CP) and impaired hand function.
Patients and methods
The study included 28 children (15 boys and 13 girls) with pure spastic hemiplegic CP and wrist flexion deformity. The mean age of the children was 7.3 years. They were subjected to transfer of the flexor carpi ulnaris to extensor carpi radialis brevis for the treatment of their wrist flexion deformity.
Results
All patients’ parents reported cosmetic improvement and 64.2% of them reported functional improvement. The success rate evidenced by an improvement in the functional grade was 42.8% at 6 months and 75% after 2 years of follow-up. Functional improvement was inversely proportional to the grade of spasticity and positively associated with the cognitive level.
Conclusion
Flexor carpi ulnaris to extensor carpi radialis brevis transfer seems to be a good surgical option for the management of children with spastic CP with impaired hand function, with a 75% success rate after 2 years of follow-up, with satisfactory cosmetic results.