Intrinsic contractures of the thumb.

A wide range of conditions can lead to intrinsic contractures of the thumb. A thorough understanding of the normal and pathologic anatomy as well as the disease processes and their effect on thumb function is essential in understanding and treating these contractures. Because intrinsic contractures of the thumb rarely present in isolation, a patient-specific approach based on functional needs is required. Prevention of iatrogenic contractures and progression of predictable contractures regardless of etiology is the health care provider's primary responsibility.