Syndactyly
Syndactyly Diagnosis and Webbed Fingers Treatment
Syndactyly is a congential deformity where two or more digits (fingers or toes) are fused together. There are several classifications of the condition which dictates the extent of treatment needed.
- Simple syndactyly involves only the soft tissue of the digits.
- Complex syndactyly occurs when the bones of the two digits are fused.
- Complete syndactyly is the classification for fingers fused from the base to tip.
- Incomplete syndactyly refers to instances where only a portion of the soft tissue is connected.
- Complicated syndactly is the most severe, and occurs where the bones of more than two digits are fused, most often in a side-to-side fashion.
DIAGNOSIS: A physical examination, aided by X-rays, is needed to diagnose this condition as well as plan for proper treatment. If the condition is not severe enough to impede hand function, no treatment may be needed. Because syndactyly may be a symptom of other, more serious conditions, examination by a physician is necessary, even in mild cases.
TREATMENT: If treatment is warranted, surgery is performed to separate the fused fingers as well as add skin needed to fully cover the fingers. This is generally done with a skin graft, often taken from the groin area. The specific procedure performed depends upon the extent and type of the deformity being corrected. More than one surgery may be needed in some cases. Surgical treatment is generally performed on patients between the ages of 6 months and two years.
Dr. Fiore specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of Syndactyly. He is board certified by the American Board of Surgery and fellowship trained in hand surgery. For more information on treatment options, or to schedule a consultation, call Fiore Hand and Wrist at (281) 970-8002.
We are conveniently located within driving distance of Cypress TX, Katy TX, Spring TX, Tomball TX, The Woodlands TX, and Houston TX.
For more information please visit Handcare.org.