Long term functional outcomes after early childhood pollicization.

STUDY DESIGN Retrospective Cohort INTRODUCTION Important outcomes of polliciation to treat thumb hypoplasia/aplasia include strength, function, dexterity, and quality of life. PURPOSE OF THE STUDY To evaluate outcomes and examine predictors of outcome after early childhood pollicization. METHODS 8 children (10 hands) were evaluated 3-15 years after surgery. Physical examination, questionnaires, grip and pinch strength, Box and Blocks, 9-hole pegboard, and strength-dexterity (S-D) tests were performed. RESULTS Pollicized hands had poor strength and performance on functional tests. Six of 10 pollicized hands had normal dexterity scores but less stability in maintaining a steady-state force. Predictors of poorer outcomes included older age at surgery, reduced metacarpophalangeal and interphalangeal range of motion, and radial absence. DISCUSSION Pollicization resulted in poor strength and overall function, but normal dexterity was often achieved using altered control strategies. CONCLUSIONS Most children should obtain adequate dexterity despite weakness after pollicization except older or severely involved children. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE IV.