[Functional value of the Sauerbruch arm].

Since 1988 to the beginning of 1993 we have performed 20 Sauerbruch-muscle-tunnels by 16 patients. (1 forearm-, 17 biceps- and 2 pectoralis-tunnels) All tunnels correspond our expectations - expect 1 tunnel. The functional result of the prosthesis is dependent on the interest of the patients and their intention to forget the handicap. We recommended to use the prosthesis with sensitive feedback by patients, who have clear performances about their future live, after a long talk with the orthopedic surgeon. The suspicion of the disablement ideas decided the failure.