Publications by authors named "Dirk J van der Spuy"
Purpose: To investigate the radiographic length and width of the new thumb metacarpal in relation to the middle finger proximal phalanx; to assess the incidence of premature physeal closure of the new metacarpal; and to consider whether there is a relationship between growth characteristics and the presence of union or nonunion of the new trapezium to the retained index finger metacarpal base.
Methods: Forty pollicizations were assessed with preoperative or immediate postoperative radiographs and follow-up radiographs to establish the growth characteristics of the new thumb metacarpal. Functional outcomes comprising grip strength, pinch strength, and range of motion were correlated with radiological findings of presence or absence of open physes and presence or absence of union of the new trapezium to the metacarpal base.
Purpose: To investigate the presence or absence of union of the new trapezium to the retained metacarpal base after pollicization and to relate this to stability of the new trapezium and the new carpometacarpal joint.
Methods: Thirty-six patients (46 pollicizations) were assessed at clinical review. Mean time from surgery to review was 96 months (range, 9-260 mo).