Abstract
1. Congenital defects of the extremities are described. Although the detailed anatomy is infinitely variable, a broad classification in relation to prosthetic management has been suggested.
2. Most patients with these deformities can be fitted with a prosthesis without major surgical intervention. With this they will have at least as good function as they would have after amputation. A plea is made for a conservative attitude in this respect. It is suggested that recourse to amputation should be confined to cases in which prosthetic equipment falls short of functional and cosmetic requirements, and that, when possible, it should be deferred until the child is old enough to share in the decision.
3. The prostheses applicable to the various types of deformity are briefly described.
4. The application of similar techniques to cases of acquired shortening is mentioned.
5. The incorporation of certain features of artificial arms in flail arm splints is discussed.
