Nerve transfer rehabilitation in tetraplegia: Comprehensive assessment and treatment program to improve upper extremity function before and after nerve transfer surgery, a case report

This case report discusses nerve transfer surgery as a potential treatment for improving upper extremity function in individuals with tetraplegia resulting from cervical spinal cord injuries. The patient underwent a pre-surgical neurorehabilitation program of 3 months duration and an intensive post-surgical rehabilitation program with follow-up every 3 months, up to 24 months after the surgery. The study highlights the importance of a comprehensive assessment and rehabilitation program, both before and after surgery, to maximize functional outcomes.

• 1
  The patient showed notable improvements in wheelchair propulsion, ability to relieve pressure, grasp, pinch, and release an object after nerve transfer surgery and intensive rehabilitation.
• 2
  Standardized measures for SCI individuals (SCIM-III, CUE-Q, LiSAT-9 and UEMS) showed significant improvements after the intervention.
• 3
  Improvement of strength was noted bilaterally in triceps brachii, extensor digitorumcommunis (EDC) and flexor digitorumprofundus (FDP).