Turkish family flies to St. Louis for rare hand surgery
Eighteen-month-old Elisa was born with a condition affecting fewer than 100 people globally, requiring specialized reconstructive surgery.
By Takeshi Davidson ·
Elisa, an 18-month-old from Turkey, underwent a three-hour reconstructive surgery in St. Louis in January.
Her family traveled across the Atlantic to address a rare congenital condition known as Ulnar Dimelia, or Mirror Hand Syndrome. The condition is estimated to affect one in a million or fewer children. According to Dr. Charles Goldfarb, Chief of Orthopedic Surgery at St. Louis Children’s Hospital, fewer than 100 people worldwide live with this specific diagnosis.
The syndrome results in the absence of the radius bone in the forearm. This anatomical difference limits movement at the wrist and elbow while preserving motion in the shoulder. Elisa was born with eight fingers on her left hand.
Emircan and Gulten Buga, Elisa’s parents, spoke primarily Turkish during the process. They utilized a translator for all interactions with the medical team. Emircan stated that the language barrier did not hinder their daughter’s treatment. He credited the staff with providing financial and psychological support throughout their stay.
The family first connected with the surgical team through the St. Louis Children’s International Free Care Fund. This program is supported by the St. Louis Children’s Hospital Foundation. Goldfarb communicated with the parents via phone and video calls before their arrival to discuss Elisa’s specific condition.
Goldfarb led the surgical team on January 30. He described the procedure as life-changing for a child at such a young age. He noted that watching young patients recover and grow is a central part of his work. He added that the surgery is designed to help her succeed in various aspects of life.
Elisa is currently recovering from the operation. Her father, Emircan, said she will continue her life with increased confidence and courage. He also noted that the family will miss her original hand because it marked the beginning of their story.
