title: Reconstruction for Type IV Radial Polydactyly.
abstract: Type IV radial polydactyly represents a thumb with an extra proximal and distal phalanx. Assessment of the thumb for surgical reconstruction includes observing thumb function, evaluating thumb size and stability, and assessing the first web space. Reconstruction includes excision of the smaller thumb, typically the radial thumb, and re-creating thumb stability and alignment by addressing tendon insertion and joint orientation. Although surgical results are satisfying and complications are uncommon, additional surgical intervention may be required over time owing to thumb malalignment or instability.
authors.affiliation: Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, St. Louis Children's Hospital and Shriners Hospital for Children, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO.
authors.forename: Lindley B
authors.initials: LB
authors.lastname: Wall
authors.affiliation: Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, St. Louis Children's Hospital and Shriners Hospital for Children, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO. Electronic address: goldfarbc@wudosis.wustl.edu.
authors.forename: Charles A
authors.initials: CA
authors.lastname: Goldfarb
mesh_terms: D001864:Bone Wires; D004954:Esthetics; D006801:Humans; D010027:Osteotomy; D017689:Polydactyly / Q000601:surgery*; D019651:Plastic Surgery Procedures / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods*; D013524:Surgical Flaps; D013933:Thumb / Q000002:abnormalities*
keywords: Radial polydactyly; Wassel; reconstruction