Vascular Insufficiency/Chronic Ischemia in the Upper Extremity-Hypothenar Hammer Syndrome: Long-Term Results of Vascular Reconstruction

Hypothenar Hammer Syndrome: Long-Term Results of Vascular Reconstruction

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The study evaluated the long-term results of vascular reconstruction for hypothenar hammer syndrome, a condition characterized by ulnar artery thrombosis caused by repeated trauma to the ulnar aspect of the hand. The study aimed to determine the patency rates of vein graft reconstructions and identify factors that may affect outcomes. <br />18 vein graft reconstructions were evaluated in 16 patients using color flow ultrasound. Of the 18 grafts, 14 (78%) were occluded at an average follow-up of 9.8 years. Patients with patent grafts had significantly less disability related to cold intolerance and less pain compared to those with occluded grafts. There was no difference in Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand scores between the two groups. Patients graded the result of treatment significantly higher in patent reconstructions. Despite the high percentage of occlusion, overall patients reported low functional disability and all would recommend surgical reconstruction. <br />The study suggests that while graft occlusion is common in the long-term, patients with patent grafts experience improved outcomes in terms of cold intolerance and pain. The precise factors that contribute to graft occlusion require further investigation. The study was limited by its small sample size and retrospective nature. Future research is needed to develop strategies to improve graft patency and further understand its implications on patient outcomes.

Keywords

vascular reconstruction

hypothenar hammer syndrome

ulnar artery thrombosis

vein graft reconstructions

patency rates

graft occlusion

cold intolerance

pain

functional disability

patient outcomes