Medizinische Universität Graz - Research portal
Selected Publication:
Thein, S.
An analysis of commonly seen pathologies of the hand and foot in children
[ Diplomarbeit ] Medical University of Graz; 2012. pp. 78
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- Authors Med Uni Graz:
- Advisor:
- Schmidt Barbara
- Singer Georg
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- Abstract:
- Background: Congenital anomalies of the hand and foot in children are seldom seen. However it is important to be aware of the most common seen deficiencies to assure an appropriate therapy. Their etiology still remains unknown. However endogenic and exogenic factors are discussed to play a role in the development of these anomalies. The aim of this study is to analyze the treatment and outcome of the most commonly seen deficiencies of the hand and foot. Methods: Data were retrospectively collected at the Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Surgery at the Medical University of Graz. All patients treated with congenital deficiencies of the hand and/or foot during an 11 years period (2000-2010) were included. The patients were assigned to the different entities classified by Van Schoonhoven. The most commonly seen deficiencies of the hand and foot were the trigger thumb/finger in 100 cases and polydactylies in 86 cases. Results: Trigger thumb/finger affected boys and girls almost equally. Trigger thumb (85%) was more common than trigger finger. 83% underwent surgical splitting of the A1-pulley. In 10 patients minor complications occurred, a reoperation was needed in 3 cases due to an incomplete splitting of the A1-pulley. 53 ulnar polydactylies in 32 patients, 26 patients with 29 radial polydactylies and 39 patients with 53 polydactylies of the foot were analyzed. Out of 32 patients with ulnar polydactyly 27 underwent surgery, 9% needed a reoperation due to hypertrophic scaring. 96% of the cases with radial polydactyly underwent surgery, one patient needed a reoperation due to a deviation of the axis. Out of 39 cases with polydactyly of the foot 35 underwent surgery. Complications were rare. In 3 cases a second operation was performed due to a deviation of the axis. Conclusion: The postoperative outcome of these anomalies is excellent regarding the functional and cosmetic appearance. The occurring complications are minor and in most of the cases conservative treatment can be realized.