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Treatment of the windblown hand
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Loma Linda University Medical Center, CA 92350.
The Journal of Hand Surgery
|May 1, 1990
Summary
The windblown hand deformity, a rare congenital condition, involves finger ulnar drift and contractures. Early intervention within the first two years is crucial for optimal outcomes in managing this condition.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Orthopedics
- Clinical Genetics
- Congenital Anomalies
Background:
- Windblown hand deformity, also known as congenital ulnar drift, is infrequently reported.
- Inconsistent terminology across studies complicates understanding of this rare condition.
- The anomaly shares features with arthrogryposis and may be inherited as an autosomal dominant trait.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the clinical presentation and inheritance patterns of windblown hand deformity.
- To propose an individualized treatment plan for this rare congenital anomaly.
- To highlight the importance of early surgical intervention.
Main Methods:
- Review of 11 observed cases of windblown hand deformity over 20 years.
- Surgical intervention in 7 hands across 4 patients.
- Analysis of common clinical features, including flexion contractures and ulnar deviation.
Main Results:
- Ulnar drift is typically present at birth and progresses with growth.
- A consistent finding is metacarpophalangeal joint flexion contracture with ulnar finger deviation.
- Thumb webbing by a soft tissue bridge is a characteristic feature.
Conclusions:
- Windblown hand deformity is a rare condition with variable presentations.
- Early treatment, ideally within the first two years of life, is recommended.
- Individualized treatment approaches are necessary due to the anomaly's variability.