[Clinical classification of congenital limb abnormalities].

Limb developmental defects are well-known, conspicuous abnormalities. Until this day, the background has still not been completely revealed, however, the development of scientific methods provides more and more opportunities which may help to understand developmental processes and defects of this compound system. Considering these aspects, following data collection from patients with limb developmental defects, we began a study with the purpose of finding/establishing a classification system that is suitable for morphological and clinical distinctions, besides considering developmental aspects, and may help to indicate adequate genetic examinations. To classify 195 patients included in our database, we chose a worldwide accepted table from Swanson. Based upon our observations we proposed some alterations, which finally lead to a table, suitable for patient classification based upon morphology and clinical features. Furthermore it allows comparisons concerning developmental aspects, gives reasonable background for genetic studies and is suitable for everyday clinical usage.