Elbow flexion recovery after intercostal nerve transfer in elderly patients: a clinical experience report - Summary - MDSpire

Elbow flexion recovery after intercostal nerve transfer in elderly patients: a clinical experience report

  • By

  • Evelina Llorian

  • Gabriela Magalhães

  • Ingrid Espíndola

  • Fernando Guedes

  • April 8, 2026

  • 0 min

Share

Objective:

To evaluate clinical outcomes of ICN-to-MCN transfer in elderly patients and identify perioperative factors associated with meaningful functional recovery, defined as achieving at least M3 elbow flexion.

Key Findings:
  • Elderly patients represented less than 1.6% of ICN-to-MCN transfers.
  • One patient with early reconstruction achieved useful elbow flexion (M4), demonstrating the importance of timing.
  • Delayed surgery beyond 5 months resulted in limited or absent recovery (M0–M2), underscoring the critical window for intervention.
Interpretation:

ICN-to-MCN transfer can be effective in elderly patients if performed early and under favorable conditions, emphasizing the necessity for tailored treatment plans based on individual patient factors.

Limitations:
  • Small sample size limits generalizability and may introduce selection bias.
  • Lack of diverse demographic representation.
Conclusion:

ICN-to-MCN transfer is a viable option for selected elderly patients, with outcomes significantly influenced by timing and rehabilitation efforts.

Original Source(s)

Related Content