Professional
Technical
IVT
pollicization
Pronunciation: pol-ih-sih-ZAY-shun
Surgical procedure to create a functional thumb from the index finger in cases of thumb absence.
Full Definition
A complex reconstructive surgery that converts the index finger into a functional thumb in patients with congenital thumb absence or severe thumb loss. The procedure involves repositioning the index finger, shortening the metacarpal, and transferring tendons and nerves to create opposition and pinch function. Pollicization is considered the gold standard for reconstruction in thumb aplasia or hypoplasia.
Usage
Usage note: Derived from 'pollex' (Latin for thumb); used specifically for index-to-thumb conversion surgery.
In Context
- "Pollicization of the index finger provided excellent pinch strength and functional grip in this child with thumb aplasia." — Pediatric surgery report
- "The patient demonstrated good cosmetic and functional outcomes six months after pollicization surgery." — Follow-up assessment
Also known as
index finger pollicization
thumb reconstruction
Contrasted with
thumb replantation
thumb amputation
Don't confuse with
thumb opposition
opponensplasty