Case Study
Year : 2023 | Volume : 4 | Issue : 2 | Page : 1-8
Reconstruction of Multiple Digital Defects Secondary to Neurofibroma with a Cost- Effective Ring-Retained Silicone Prosthesis: Enhancing Function and Quality of Life
Soumo Ghoshal1, Manoharan PS1,*, Devemeena S2, Rajkumar E1
1Prosthodontics and Crown & Bridge, Indira Gandhi Institute of Dental Sciences, Puducherry India.
2Prosthodontics and Crown & Bridge, Venkateswara Dental College and Hospital, Pondicherry, India.
Address for Correspondence:
Dr. Manoharan PS
Prosthodontics and Crown & Bridge, Indira Gandhi Institute of Dental Sciences, Puducherry India.
Email ID: manodent_2000@yahoo.com
Abstract
Loss of digits significantly compromises hand function, aesthetics, and psychological well-being, particularly when surgical reconstruction is contraindicated or unaffordable. Prosthetic rehabilitation using silicone finger prostheses remains a practical alternative; however, retention and functional restoration become challenging in the absence of residual phalangeal stumps. This case report describes the rehabilitation of a 53-year-old female with neurofibromatosis type 1 who presented with complete amputation of the middle and ring fingers of the left hand secondary to gangrene, with no residual stumps available for conventional prosthetic retention. A cost-effective, removable silicone finger prosthesis was fabricated using a cobalt–chromium metal framework retained by finger rings on adjacent digits. The framework incorporated supporting struts to enhance stability and allow coordinated movement with neighboring fingers. Medical-grade RTV silicone was used to achieve lifelike aesthetics through intrinsic and extrinsic coloration. The prosthesis provided satisfactory retention without adhesives or implants and enabled partial functional activities such as holding objects. The patient reported improved confidence, comfort, and quality of life during follow-up. This report highlights a simple, non-invasive, and affordable ring-retained prosthetic design that offers an effective solution for phalangeal rehabilitation in patients with compromised anatomical foundations, especially in resource-limited settings.
Keywords:
Finger prosthesis; Silicone prosthesis; Ring-retained retention
Conflict of interest
The authors have nothing to disclose or any conflicts of interest
Source of funding
None
How to cite this article: Ghoshal S, Manoharan PS, Devemeena S, Rajkumar E (2023). Reconstruction of Multiple Digital Defects Secondary to Neurofibroma with a Cost- Effective Ring-Retained Silicone Prosthesis: Enhancing Function and Quality of Life: Original Article. International Journal of Prosthodontic Rehabilitation, 4(2), 1–8. https://doi.org/10.56501/Int.J.Prosthodont.Rehabil.v4.i1.intjpr0003
