How common is thumb hypoplasia?
Thumb hypoplasia is a rare condition and occurs in about 1 in 100,000 infants. It is equally common in males and females. In approximately 60 percent of patients with thumb hypoplasia, both thumbs are affected. In some cases, a child’s other fingers may also be missing or underdeveloped.
What causes congenital trigger thumb?
What causes trigger thumb? Pediatric trigger thumb occurs by chance and is not related to other disorders. A band of tissue called a tendon connects the thumb to a muscle in the forearm. Sometimes in children, the tendon grows faster than the protective sheath that surrounds it.
Why are my thumbs tiny?
Brachydactyly is a shortening of the fingers and toes due to unusually short bones. This is an inherited condition, and in most cases does not present any problems for the person who has it. There are different types of brachydactyly, based on which bones are shortened.
How do you fix a deformed thumb?
Nonsurgical treatment is usually preferred, and may include: Splints: A splint will be applied to the finger at the middle joint to straighten it. This keeps the ends of the tendon from separating as it heals. It also allows the end joint of the finger to bend.
What causes hypoplastic thumb or thumb hypoplasia?
As of now, there is no known cause for Hypoplastic Thumb or Thumb Hypoplasia identified, although research is still ongoing as to find a cause for this condition. Some studies suggest that Hypoplastic Thumb or Thumb Hypoplasia occurs in the presence of certain other congenital conditions in which there is underdevelopment of the hands or forearm.
What is the best treatment for hypoplastic thumb in children?
Children with type III are the most difficult patients to treat because there is not one specific treatment for the hypoplastic thumb. The limit between pollicization and reconstruction varies. Some surgeons have said that type IIIA is amenable to reconstruction and not type IIIB. Others say type IIIA is not suitable for reconstruction too.
What are the different types of thumb disorders?
These types are: Type 1 Hypoplastic Thumb or Thumb Hypoplasia: In this type, the size of the thumb is just a little bit smaller than normal but this does not cause any dysfunction of the hand and the child is able to use the hand in a normal way without any difficulties.
What causes thumb hypoplasia in Fanconi anemia?
The cause is unknown, and likely related to genetic abnormalities. Children with Fanconi anemia can sometimes display hypoplasia of the thumb. Three main points in diagnosing thumb hypoplasia are: width of the first web space, instability of the involved joints and function of the thumb.