To evaluate the effectiveness of modified abductor pollicis brevis tendon transfer in reconstructing chronic radial collateral ligament injuries of the thumb metacarpophalangeal joint, particularly in cases diagnosed late.
Key Findings:
Improved stability and satisfactory alignment were reported.
Both patients resumed daily activities and work within a specified timeframe.
No complications or radiographic failures were noted at follow-up (2 years for one patient and 6 months for the other).
Interpretation:
The modified APB tendon transfer technique appears to be a reliable alternative for chronic RCL injuries, potentially reducing donor-site morbidity and improving patient outcomes.
Limitations:
Small sample size of only two patients.
Lack of a comparison group.
Short follow-up duration for one patient.
Absence of standardized outcome measures.
Conclusion:
The technique offers reproducible functional outcomes, such as improved stability and alignment, and may simplify the surgical procedure.
