Thumb kinematics and their relevance to function.

With its sophisticated motion and prehensile ability, the TM joint is essential to hand function. The bony anatomy and the musculotendinous forces across the joint allow this advanced function. The elaborate ligamentous system provides stability. The high forces transmitted during routine pinch and grasp would not be possible without this complex arrangement.

Free tissue transfer in the treatment of linear scleroderma.

Linear scleroderma is a subtype of localized scleroderma that most commonly affects children. The disease is rare, and the course is unpredictable. Most cases spontaneously resolve in 3-5 years. A small number, however, slowly progress to involve deeper subcutaneous tissues, muscles, and periosteum. Subsequent joint contractures and gross disturbances are frequent. Little on treatment is recorded in the literature. We report on four children who, in addition to bony procedures and release of joint and ligamentous contractures, had excision of the diseased skin and free soft-tissue transfer for coverage.

Fractures of the wrist and hand.

The hands are extremely vulnerable to injury because of their constant use. This chapter features analyses of the evaluation, treatment, rehabilitation, and complications of fractures of the distal radius, carpus, metacarpals, and phalanges.