Synopsis Congenital transverse deficiency of the upper extremity is a rare but disabling condition in which all elements beyond a given level in the extremity are absent. The most common level is the proximal forearm, but it can occur at…
Synopsis Almost any deficiency of the thumb compromises the function of the hand. Differences range from minor shortening of an otherwise normal thumb to complete absence of the thumb. Blauth has classified the hypoplastic thumb into five categories depending on…
Synopsis Polydactyly of the hand refers to the presence of an extra digit or part of a digit. It can be defined as radial, central, or ulnar, referring to the region of the extra digit. The condition can occur in…
Synopsis Syndactyly is the most common congenital hand deformity, presenting with varying levels of severity. Left untreated, syndactyly can result in hand deformity and/or failure of the hand to reach its full functional potential. Surgical treatment typically occurs within the…
Synopsis Surgery most commonly performed for post-burn injuries includes initial excision of non-viable tissue and, later, release of scars, correction of joint contractures, and use of grafts and flaps to resurface areas of skin loss. Common areas include the neck,…
Synopsis Foot burns consist of a small percentage of the total body surface area calculated for burns, but injury to this region of anatomical importance can often result in debilitating consequences. The complexity of these burns requires specialized treatment by…
Synopsis Over 200,000 patients are treated yearly in the United States for burns, and yearly millions suffer from burns overseas. Due to the large surface area and dependent position of the lower extremities, burns are very common and can range…
Synopsis Deep burns to the hands are significant injuries that result in scarring, contractures, and functional limitations. These post-burn contractures are common in pediatric and adult patients despite appropriate initial management. The most common contractures include the first and interdigital…
Synopsis Burns continue to be a significant source of morbidity and mortality in low- and middle-income countries. Patients that survive the original injury often develop burn scar contracture because burns across the neck, axilla, elbow, and wrist are forced to…
Synopsis Burn injury to the axilla is caused by flame or direct contact. Ignition of clothing is the most common cause. Burns that will not heal within 2 weeks should be excised and skin grafted to prevent progressive scar contraction…