Carvable silicone rubber prosthetic implant for atrophy of the first web in the hand

Muscular atrophy of the first web space in the hand is a common finding following ulnar nerve palsy and this deformity is very stigmatizing among leprosy patients in some countries and cultures. We present our experience with the carvable soft-silicone rubber block implant to correct this deformity. We discuss the procedure, results and advantages over other techniques. Fifteen operations were performed at the 'Lauro de Souza Lima' Research Institute, Bauru, Brazil during a period of six years. One complication was encountered due to an implant that was too large. The results were considered good in twelve instances and fair in three.