Rehabilitation Perspectives in Unilateral Upper Limb Peromelia: A Case Report

TL;DR

This case report discusses the rehabilitation of a child with a congenital limb deficiency, emphasizing the benefits of early passive prosthetic fitting for functional and psychosocial development.

Contribution

The paper highlights the novel approach of early passive prosthetic fitting in improving outcomes for children with unilateral upper limb peromelia.

Findings

Early passive prosthetic fitting facilitates bimanual activities and prepares children for future active prosthesis training.

Timely prosthetic intervention is associated with reduced rejection rates and better long-term functional outcomes.

Cognitive maturity and structured training are essential for active prosthetic use.

Abstract

We present the case of a two-year-old male child with unilateral right trans-radial peromelia, focusing on the rehabilitation strategy and the importance of early passive prosthetic fitting in enhancing functional and psychosocial outcomes. Peromelia, also referred to as congenital transverse limb deficiency, is characterized by truncation of a limb at varying levels due to arrested limb development. Management options for congenital limb deficiencies include prosthetic fitting and external stump lengthening, particularly in cases of trans-humeral and trans-radial peromelia. Early identification and timely prosthetic intervention are crucial, as they are associated with reduced prosthesis rejection rates and improved long-term functional outcomes. While cognitive maturity and the ability to participate in structured training are necessary for active prosthetic use, early passive prosthetic fitting plays a vital role in facilitating bimanual activities and preparing the child for future active prosthesis training.

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