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Speaker: Prevention of loss of web space is the best defense
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PHILADELPHIA — Injury to the hand may cause loss of web space function, but by defending the web space, surgeons can help prevent this loss, according to a presenter at the Annual Hand Surgery Symposium, here.
“I think the best defense [of web space] is prevention,” William C. Pederson, MD, said in his presentation. “We have got to be aware of injuries or conditions that could lead to loss of web space function.”
Pederson noted a study published by Christine Jensen, MS, OTR, and colleagues in which the mean web space angle was 100° in women and 105° in men. When the web space was shortened, patients had difficulty picking up small objects, and speed and dexterity were affected. According to Pederson, preventing the loss of web space is a lot easier than later release. Pins or external fixation should be used over a splint, he said, which is not adequate in maintaining the first web space.
“Any time you have injury in or near the web space, at least pin the web space,” Pederson said. “External fixation may be a better option in some situations, and if you manage the soft tissue properly, you can also help prevent a contraction.” – by Casey Tingle
Reference:
Jensen CB, et al. J Hand Surg Am. 1993;doi:10.1016/0363-5023(93)90103-A.
Pederson WC. Defend the Web Space. Presented at: Annual Hand Surgery Symposium. March 7-9, 2015; Philadelphia.
Disclosure: Pederson reports no relevant financial disclosures.