guidebook. - Fanconi Anemia Research Fund

Chapter 5: Hand and Arm Differences in FA
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3) maintain wrist and finger motion;
4) promote growth of the forearm;
5) improve the function of the extremity.
Slight shortening of the radius (Type I deficiency)
requires continued stretching and may need a tendon
transfer to re-balance the wrist. This treatment is relatively
straightforward. Partial or complete absence
is more common (Types II, III, and IV) and is more
difficult to treat. The wrist assumes a position of severe
radial deviation, which shortens an already undersized
forearm, places the extrinsic flexor and extensor tendons
at an unfavorable angle, and creates functional
deficits. The functional impairment is far greater in
bilateral than in unilateral cases. The digital abnormalities
also require consideration during formulation of
a treatment plan, as stiff fingers and a deficient thumb
will hamper prehension and create additional functional
impediment.
Figure 10: Bilateral upper extremity splints fabricated to maintain
wrists in straight alignment.