Surgical techniques for reconstruction of the hypoplastic thumb

Abstract

The reconstruction of a congenital hypoplastic thumb usually involves release of a tight first web space, metacarpophalangeal joint stabilization, reconstruction of intrinsic muscle function, and extrinsic tendon reconstruction, as appropriate. Numerous surgical options and combinations are available, but the approaches vary among surgeons who work in the field of congenital hand surgery and the empirical evidence that allows for evaluation of the results of techniques is scarce. Both the pre-operative assessment and intra-operative findings of all thumb elements – bone, joints, and soft tissues – should be considered in the surgical decision-making and eventually define the methods of reconstruction. This article summarizes the different reconstructive options.