Faculty Bibliography

Transfer of a flexor digitorum superficialis tendon is an effective procedure in restoring active flexion of the thumb following old lacerations or ruptures of the flexor pollicis longus tendon within the digital sheath when tendon repair or advancement is not possible. The ample length of the transferred tendon and, more importantly, its normal excursion make it the preferred procedure to the alternative tendon graft. The operation is usually carried out as a one-stage procedure, but, if there is severe scarring, it can follow the preliminary insertion of a silicone rod. For 23 patients, the operation was performed in a single stage in 18 and in 5 after insertion of a silicone rod. Postoperative mobility of the interphalangeal joint averaged 53.5 degrees. Mobility of the donor ring finger was complete in all patients.

Glomus tumors about the wrist area are rare. Three new cases are presented. A provocative diagnostic test using ethyl chloride spray has been found useful. This test is superior to the use of ice because application can be to a very small area.

A case of neurofibromatosis causing diffuse elephantoid hypertrophy of an upper limb is described. Infiltration by tumor mass led to disruption of the carpus and dislocation of the hand.

A report of a case of long-standing Scleroderma (Progressive Systemic Sclerosis) is presented to emphasize the severe consequences of vascular compromise in the hand. The disease process is reviewed and is illustrated by the arteriographic findings in this patient.

Forty-one patients with established non-union of the carpal navicular are presented. Forty patients were treated by bone grafting, using the same operative technique in all of them. All operated fractures healed and were free of pain at the time of union. Vascularization did not seem to interfere with union in the different types of fractures. Radial styloidectomy, performed in addition to bone grafting in 26 of the patients, who had arthritic changes, improved their wrist mobility.