Abstract
Arthrogryposis is a congenital disorder, a set of conditions of different aetiologies that are characterized by joint stiffness and contractures affecting at least two different areas of the body. Thumb in arthrogryposis is clasped with a flexion adduction deformity. It is characterized by deficiency of thumb extensors, flexion contracture of the metacarpophalangeal joint with possible instability, narrowing of the first web space due to different contractures of the web structures and lack of skin. Thumb function, its position, its length, its stability and its strength are essential for a proper grip. The loss of these features due to contracture in arthrogryposis reduces significantly patients’ function and dexterity. Manipulation of the deformities starting soon after birth can improve the range of motion, which, if surgery needs to be done, makes the operation less extensive. Release of structures that are contracted, skin correction, gain of stability, good position and, if possible, replacement of structures that are weak or absent are the aim of the surgical treatment.
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Novelli, C., Proserpio, G., Pajardi, G. (2023). Thumb in Arthrogryposis. In: Pajardi, G. (eds) Pediatric Hand Surgery. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-30984-7_21
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-30984-7_21
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