What Is Syndactyly?
Syndactyly is a hand deformity where two or more fingers (or toes) are fused together creating a webbed look. There are two kinds of syndactyly:
- The fingers are only fused by the tissue, or fleshy part.
- The fingers are fused between the bones.
When fingers are completely fused together it is called complete syndactyly.
What Causes Syndactyly?
Syndactyly is caused when parts of the hand (either bone and/or tissue) fail to separate while a child is in the womb. Syndactyly is often an inherited family trait, meaning parents pass it down to their children through their genes.
What Is Polydactyly? (Extra Fingers or Toes)
Polydactyly is a condition where the hand (or foot) has additional fingers/toes (most often the little finger/toe). These two conditions are the most common hand and foot conditions that pediatric plastic surgeons treat. While some children can be treated non-surgically, most children will need surgery.
What Causes Polydactyly?
Polydactyly can be genetic, passed down in families, or can happen on its own. The extra finger is usually smaller than the other fingers and abnormally developed. It could be made of skin and soft tissue or could include a bone and joint.
Treatment
If you would like to meet a pediatric plastic surgeon for an evaluation of your child’s condition, feel free to schedule a consultation today.