Syndactyly
IF YOU HAVE SYNDACTYLY, PLEASE SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT WITH ONE OF OUR ORTHOPEDIC SPECIALISTS AS SOON AS POSSIBLE.
What is Syndactyly?
Syndactyly manifests as a congenital anomaly where two or more fingers or toes exhibit fusion. This anomaly arises during fetal development due to incomplete division of the tissue that normally separates these digits. Consequently, the affected fingers or toes remain joined, varying in severity from partial fusion involving soft tissue to complete fusion extending to the bones. While often inherited, syndactyly can also occur spontaneously without a familial precedent.
This condition impacts both the functionality and appearance of the hands or feet. While some cases of syndactyly do not hinder daily activities, others may necessitate surgical intervention to enhance both function and aesthetic appearance. Surgical procedures typically entail separating the fused digits and reconstructing the affected skin, and in more complex cases, bones and tendons may also require adjustment. Early identification and treatment are critical, particularly in children, to optimize outcomes by ensuring proper development and functionality of the affected digits.
Causes for Syndactyly
Syndactyly occurs due to incomplete separation of fingers or toes during fetal development. This congenital condition arises when the tissue that normally divides these digits fails to do so entirely. The exact cause is often genetic, passed down through families, although it can also occur sporadically without a family history. Certain genetic mutations or environmental factors may contribute to the development of syndactyly, but specific triggers vary.
Syndactyly presents in different forms, ranging from partial fusion with only skin involvement to complete fusion involving bones. Depending on the severity and location of the fusion, syndactyly can impact the function and appearance of the affected limbs. While syndactyly itself rarely causes health issues beyond cosmetic or functional concerns, surgical correction may be recommended to separate the fused digits and reconstruct the affected structures. Early diagnosis and evaluation by healthcare providers are essential for determining the best course of action and ensuring optimal outcomes, particularly in cases where syndactyly affects hand or foot function.
Treatment Options
Treatment for syndactyly typically involves surgical intervention to separate the fused digits and improve function and appearance. The specific approach depends on the severity of fusion and the structures involved. Surgeons carefully assess each case to determine the best surgical technique, which may include releasing the soft tissue attachments, dividing the bones if necessary, and reconstructing the skin to cover the newly separated digits.
The timing of surgery varies; it often occurs in early childhood to facilitate normal development and hand or foot function. In some cases, multiple surgeries may be required over time as the child grows. Post-surgical care includes monitoring for proper healing and rehabilitation to ensure optimal recovery and function.
Before surgery, families consult with healthcare providers to discuss the procedure’s goals, potential risks, and expected outcomes. While syndactyly correction is sometimes cosmetic, it aims to enhance the affected individual’s ability to use their hands or feet effectively and improve their overall quality of life.
IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO SPEAK TO AN ORTHOPEDIC SPECIALIST IN DALLAS, FORT WORTH, OR THE LONE STAR STATE, GIVE US A CALL AT 817-697-4038, OR CONTACT US OVER THE WEB. TELE-MEDICINE APPOINTMENTS ARE ALSO AVAILABLE.
