Restoration of Sensation and Thumb Opposition Using Nerve Transfers Following Resection of a Synovial Sarcoma of the Median Nerve

Abstract

Synovial sarcomas of peripheral nerves are rare and often leave major functional deficits after wide excision. We present a case of median nerve reconstruction using nerve transfers after resection of a synovial sarcoma of the median nerve. Sensation was restored by transferring the fourth common digital nerve to the first and second common digital nerves. Thumb opposition was restored by transferring the abductor digiti minimi branch to the recurrent motor branch. The soft tissue defect was reconstructed with a free gracilis muscle flap. Fifteen months after surgery, there was Medical Research Council grade 4+ opposition strength with co-contraction of the abductor digiti minimi. Sensation recovered slowly over time. The Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand score decreased from 47.4 before surgery to 13.3 afterward. The patient was able to use the right hand for writing and crafting pottery. Distal nerve transfers are a reliable option for reconstruction of complete median nerve defects. Key words: median nerve, nerve transfer, opponensplasty, sensory nerve transfer, synovial sarcoma