Improvement in the surgical results of treatment of duplicated thumb by preoperative splinting.

Seven patients with an angular deformity of their duplicated thumb were treated by splinting and taping before operation. In all patients, the angular deformity of the interphalangeal joint improved within a few months, and surgical centralization and osteotomy were not necessary. Furthermore the design of the fillet flap was easier and more accurate as was the adjustment of the joint ligament tension. After operation there was no recurrence of angular deformity, and the range of motion of the interphalangeal joint was good. We believe that this procedure simplifies the operative approach, making it more precise and helping to prevent postoperative complications in patients with angular deformity.