Abstract
Amputation of the thumb invariably causes marked functional impairment of the hand especially, pinch and grasp functions. In rural areas where highly skilled microvascular surgeries are not available, distraction osteogenesis provides an easy and safe alternative of thumb reconstruction. We report a case of crush injury of the right hand in a 37 year old gentleman in which the right thumb was amputated at the level of the proximal phalanx. Metacarpal lengthening of the thumb was performed by using distraction osteogenesis.
Highlights
The thumb contributes 40% of the hand function
Distraction osteogenesis or callotasis involves bone lengthening by osteotomy, slow distraction of healing fracture callus and stabilization with an external fixator
We report a case of metacarpal lengthening of the thumb by distraction osteogenesis after a traumatic amputation of the thumb
Summary
The thumb contributes 40% of the hand function. Thumb amputation causes marked functional impairment of the hand especially, pinch and grasp motions. An amputated thumb should be replanted preferably. Distraction osteogenesis or callotasis involves bone lengthening by osteotomy, slow distraction of healing fracture callus and stabilization with an external fixator .2,3. There are three phases in callotasis, which are latency, activation and consolidation. Latency is the phase following osteotomy and application of the distractor and usually ranges within 1 to 7 days. Activation phase involves gradual distraction by the distractor and, followed by consolidation phase when the desired length is achieved 3. We report a case of metacarpal lengthening of the thumb by distraction osteogenesis after a traumatic amputation of the thumb
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