Metacarpal Lengthening Of The Thumb Via Distraction Osteogenesis: A Case Report

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.

Keywords

• Thumb amputation
• Metacarpal lengthening
• Distraction Osteogenesis
• Callotasis