RT Journal
A1 Manske, Paul R.
A1 Oberg, Kerby C.
T1 Classification and Developmental Biology of Congenital Anomalies of the Hand and Upper Extremity
JF The Journal of Bone & Joint Surgery
JO The Journal of Bone & Joint Surgery
YR 2009
FD July 1
VO 91
IS Supplement_4
SP 3
OP 18
DO 10.2106/JBJS.I.00008
UL http://dx.doi.org/10.2106/JBJS.I.00008
AB 
Congenital anomalies of the hand and upper extremity are classified according to appearance; thus, the myriad of disparate presentations are organized into groups that share common morphologic features. The primary purpose of a classification is to enhance communication about the specific features of a condition by providing a descriptive framework for clinicians. Therefore, classification schemes should reflect the full spectrum of morphologic abnormalities within a given condition, and should be uncomplicated and easy for clinicians to remember and use. While an ideal classification would also guide treatment, provide insight into prognosis, and incorporate the etiologic mechanism of the condition, congenital classification systems often fall short of these goals.