Treatment options vary based on the severity of the thumb deformity and
the functional impairment of the hand. Patients with hypoplastic thumb
type I often have a well-functioning thumb and may require no further
intervention, while patients with type II and IIIA may undergo surgical
thumb reconstruction that involves releasing the tight web space between
the thumb and index finger using a skin graft and stabilizing the
metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joint through ligament reconstruction.
Patients with type IIIB, IV, and V have a completely absent or severe
mal-functioning thumb and require pollicization; a surgical procedure
that creates a functional thumb by transferring another finger (usually
the index) to the thumb position. [12]
However, it is noteworthy that certain patients with minor functional
limitations in their hand may have experienced undiagnosed thumb
hypoplasia during their childhood years. These individuals may have
successfully adapted to their condition without seeking medical
intervention and may express a preference for non-intervention. (As in
this case(. Hypoplastic thumb type I is a congenital condition
characterized by underdevelopment of the thumb. It is the mildest form
among the different types of hypoplastic thumbs. Bilateral thumb
hypoplasia with toes hypoplasia is extremely rare. Despite its small
size and limited functionality, individuals with type 1 hypoplastic
thumbs can still perform most daily activities. However, specialized
medical evaluation and potentially surgical intervention may be required
to address functional limitations and improve overall hand function.