Long-term results of index finger pollicization for congenital thumb anomalies: a systematic review

Abstract

This systematic review analyses the literature for long-term outcomes of index finger pollicization. This review includes all seven studies that reported outcomes of index finger pollicization for congenital thumb aplasia or hypoplasia for qualitative review. The seven studies included 108 index finger pollicizations with 54% male children. The studies did not describe the preoperative quality and function of the transposed index finger. Grip strength was in the range of 52%–76% of the contralateral hand. Lateral pinch and key grip strength were also approximately 50% of the contralateral hand. The main drawback of the collective literature is the lack of homogeneity of results and a standardized protocol for reporting postoperative outcomes. These factors need to be addressed to compare the long-term results of pollicizations accurately.