Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 29, 2026
08:11
Vascularized Composite Upper Limb Allograft Harvesting for Proximal Arm Allotransplantation
Published on: June 13, 2025
Congenital differences of the upper extremity: classification and treatment principles
1Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea. moonsang@snu.ac.kr
Clinics in Orthopedic Surgery
|September 13, 2011
Summary
Treating congenital differences of the upper extremity in children is complex. This review examines current classifications and proposes an improved system with treatment principles for better outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Orthopedics
- Hand Surgery
- Developmental Biology
Background:
- Congenital upper extremity differences present a diverse clinical challenge for hand surgeons.
- Effective management requires a comprehensive understanding of morphologic abnormalities and etiology.
- Current classification systems often lack completeness and guidance for treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and critique existing classification systems for congenital upper extremity differences.
- To propose a modified classification system that addresses current limitations.
- To outline fundamental treatment principles for these conditions.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of current classification systems for congenital upper extremity differences.
- Analysis of the strengths and weaknesses of existing classifications.
- Development of a revised classification framework and associated treatment guidelines.
Main Results:
- Existing classification systems for congenital upper extremity differences exhibit contradictions and limitations.
- A modified classification system is presented, offering a more comprehensive approach.
- Key treatment principles are discussed to guide surgical intervention.
Conclusions:
- A robust classification system is crucial for managing congenital upper extremity differences.
- The proposed modified system aims to improve diagnostic accuracy and treatment planning.
- Evolving understanding of etiology and treatment experience will continue to refine management strategies.
Related Concept Videos
01:19Bones of the Upper Limb: Humerus
The upper limb consists of the arm, forearm, wrist, and hand bones. The humerus is the single bone of the upper arm region. Proximally, it has a large, spherical, smooth head that articulates with the glenoid cavity of the scapula to form the glenohumeral or shoulder joint. The margin of the head is the anatomical neck, a residual epiphyseal plate. Laterally it extends to form bony projections called the greater tubercle and the lesser tubercle. Next to the tubercles is the surgical neck, a...
01:09Changes in the Appendicular Skeleton with Age
The upper and lower limb initially develops as a small bulge called a limb bud, which appears on the lateral side of the early embryo. The upper limb bud appears near the end of the fourth week of development, with the lower limb bud appearing shortly after.
Initially, the limb buds consist of a core of mesenchyme covered by a layer of ectoderm. The ectoderm at the end of the limb bud thickens to form a narrow crest called the apical ectodermal ridge. This ridge stimulates the underlying...
Initially, the limb buds consist of a core of mesenchyme covered by a layer of ectoderm. The ectoderm at the end of the limb bud thickens to form a narrow crest called the apical ectodermal ridge. This ridge stimulates the underlying...
01:15Bones of the Upper Limb: Ulna
The ulna and radius are parallel bones of the antebrachium or the forearm. The ulna lies medially and consists of a bony tip called the olecranon process at its proximal end. This hook-like projection articulates with the olecranon fossa of the humerus and forms the "hinged" ulnohumeral part of the elbow joint. This joint facilitates forearm extension and flexion while preventing its hyperextension. Similarly, the coronoid process, another bony projection on the proximal/anterior side of the...
01:12Arteries of the Upper Limbs
The subclavian artery transitions into the axillary artery as it exits the chest and enters the axillary region. This artery is critical for supplying blood to the shoulder area, including the head of the humerus, through the humeral circumflex arteries. As the vessel continues into the upper arm or brachium, it becomes the brachial artery. This artery plays a key role in vascularizing the brachial region and bifurcates at the elbow into several branches. These branches include the deep...
01:18Classification of Bones
The bones of the human skeletal system are of varied shapes, sizes, and functions. They can be classified based on their shape and function into four major classes: long bones, short bones, flat bones, and irregular bones. Some classifications include a fifth type, the sesamoid bones, as a separate class, whereas others categorize them under short bones.
Long and Short Bones
The appendicular skeleton, particularly the upper and lower limbs, is primarily made of long and short bones. The long...
Long and Short Bones
The appendicular skeleton, particularly the upper and lower limbs, is primarily made of long and short bones. The long...
01:12Alterations in Muscle Tone ll
Alterations in muscle tone are common manifestations of neurological disorders and reflect dysfunction within different nervous system regions. Spasticity, paratonia, and dystonia represent distinct forms of hypertonia, each with unique mechanisms, clinical features, and diagnostic importance.CharacteristicsSpasticity happens from upper motor neuron lesions and is characterized by velocity-dependent resistance to passive movement. Clinical features include:Exaggerated deep tendon reflexesClonus...