Rare Mirror Hand Syndrome: 18-Month-Old Receives Life-Changing Surgery in St. Louis

Elisa Buga was born with eight fingers on her left hand, a rare physical difference that has made everyday movements difficult for the 18-month-old. Her family, who speak only Turkish, traveled from their home in Turkey to St. Louis to undergo corrective surgery at St. Louis Children’s Hospital.

The condition is known as Ulnar Dimelia or Mirror Hand Syndrome. It occurs when a child is born without a radius bone, the thinner bone in the forearm. Dr. Charles Goldfarb, Chief of Orthopedic Surgery at the hospital, noted that the syndrome is extremely rare, affecting perhaps one in a million people or fewer. The missing bone restricts motion in the wrist and elbow, though shoulder movement remains intact.

Emircan Buga, Elisa’s father, said he and his wife, Gulten, relied on a translator to communicate with the medical team. He described Dr. Goldfarb as warm and genuine from their first contact, which built the trust necessary for the family to travel thousands of miles for treatment. The hospital’s International Free Care Fund, supported by the St. Louis Children’s Hospital Foundation, connected the family with the surgical team and assisted with logistics.

Goldfarb led a surgical team on January 30 to perform the reconstruction. The procedure lasted three hours. He stated that the operation is designed to be life-changing for patients, allowing them to succeed in various aspects of their development. Goldfarb expressed excitement about treating young children who have many years of life ahead of them.

Elisa is currently recovering from the surgery. Her father reflected on the journey, acknowledging that while the family will miss her original hand as a part of her story, he believes she will continue her life with increased confidence and courage. The family expressed gratitude for the financial and psychological support they received during their stay in St. Louis.

The hospital team and the family maintained communication through phone calls and video chats before the family arrived. This preliminary contact allowed the medical staff to explain the condition and the surgical plan clearly. The case illustrates the specialized nature of the care provided, as even experienced pediatric orthopedic surgeons rarely encounter Ulnar Dimelia in their careers.