DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT OF CONGENITAL THUMB HYPOPLASIA

The hypoplastic thumb has a variety of presentations, which have been generalized into a formal classification system that has treatment imp lications. In most cases, the spectrum of hypoplasia has predictable d eficits in terms of tendon and bone absence. The ultimate goal is alwa ys the same-to enhance usage of the radial digit. In this article, a s traightforward, reliable, and reproducible surgical technique is discu ssed and illustrated. Pitfalls, indications, and treatment regimes als o are discussed to help the physician successfully treat the child wit h a hypoplastic thumb.