Pollicisation of the index finger in congenital anomalies. A retrospective analysis.

Between 1977 and 1988, 30 pollicisations were performed on 22 children with hypoplasia or aplasia of the thumb. A review was undertaken to grade the results. 73% were graded good or excellent, 17% fair and ten % poor. 36% required secondary surgery to achieve a satisfactory result. Better results were obtained in Blauth III or IV deformities, with poorer outcomes in Blauth V or patients with associated radial hypoplasia. Good functional and cosmetic results were found in patients operated upon at an early age. The presence of previously unreported bony spikes was a significant cause of poor mobility and was amenable to secondary surgery.