[Lengthening of the 1. metacarpal according to Matev after loss of the thumb].

In cases where loss of the thumb has occurred, the gripping function of the hand can be pariallly restored by the process of extending the first metacarpel. In our opinion the method according to Matev, involving distraction and the interpositioning of a bony wedge is a relatively simple operation and compared with similar methods has the advantage of achieving positive results in regard to the length. The only prerequisite for this method is good skin and soft tissue condition in the area of the stump.