X-ray characteristics of upper limb joints and their clinical significance in Poland syndrome

Abstract

Objective To analyze and summarize the X-ray characteristics of upper limb bone and joint in 22 cases of Poland syndrome,and explore the clinical significance of these findings.Methods The following parameters were measured on X-ray films of bilateral upper limb of 22 patients with Poland syndrome:upper limbs length,radius length,ulna length,humerus length,length and width of the capitate,length and width of proximal phalanx of the thumb,length,width and morphology of middle phalanx of the long finger,and the number of carpal bone ossification center.Statistical analysis was carried out to compare findings from various zones.Results The incidence of involvement was higher on the right side (68.18 ％) than on the left side (31.82％).More males (81.82％) were affected than females (18.18 ％).Bony syndactyly did not occur in any of the cases.Absence of the third middle phalangeal bone was a general phenomenon,indicating the severe involvement of the central column skeleton.Abnormal changes of thumb proximal phalanx and the capitate were obvious.Statistical analysis showed significant individual differences.The humerus,ulna,and radius were all shorter.Conclusion In Poland syndrome upper limb bone and joint changes mainly occur in the short tubular bones of the hand,which appear to be smaller or absent.Upper extremity long tubular bones are shorter.There is also arrested carpal bone development. Key words: Hand deformities, congenital; X-rays; Poland syndrome; Measurement