ABSTRACT

Many statistical analyses of congenital hand deformities have appeared. However, it has been difficult to establish the true occurrence of these deformities and to compare one report with another, as the authors have used different classifications and the terminology is confusing. A standard classification and common terminology are needed, for discussion of congenital deformities. When congenital hand deformities are being diagnosed, giving the diagnostic term is equivalent to classifying the deformities. At the time of classifying the congenital deformities of the hand, some investigators think that they should be classified according to the finished form; and other think that, if at all possible, they should be classified according to the impairments occurring in pregnancy.