# Demographic and Socioeconomic Disparities in Congenital Hand Difference Surgery

## TL;DR

The paper explores how demographic and socioeconomic factors affect outcomes in surgery for congenital hand differences.

## Contribution

It highlights the existence of disparities in care and outcomes for patients with congenital hand differences.

## Key findings

- Disparities in gender, race, and socioeconomic status affect outcomes in congenital hand surgery.
- Patients with congenital hand differences report lower functional and psychosocial scores.
- Healthcare providers must be aware of these disparities to improve patient care.

## Abstract

This article aims to identify and discuss the demographic and socioeconomic disparities that exist within the field of congenital hand difference surgery.

Current literature is somewhat limited regarding disparities within congenital hand difference surgery given the rarity in clinical practice and availability of data. Individuals with congenital hand differences have reported decreased upper extremity functional scores when compared to their peers. Specific demographic backgrounds, geographic locations, and socioeconomic status have been associated with lower quality of life, psychosocial well-being, and functional outcome scores. The orthopaedic surgeon’s role as a healthcare team facilitator and communicator is of high importance during the care of these patients and their families.

Gender, racial, and socioeconomic disparities exist within the field of congenital hand difference surgery. A deliberate cognizance of these inequities during the evaluation and management of individuals with congenital hand differences is necessary. Further research and efforts aimed at mitigating the negative functional and psychosocial impact caused by these disparities should be continued.