Polydactyly Extra Finger Deformity Correction surgery

Polydactyly or polydactylism also known as hyperdactyly, this is a congenital condition in which any baby presence of extra fingers or toes. It is one of the most located next to the thumb, big toe, little finger, or little toe.Here usually one toes is smaller or less well formed than the other toes digits.

Prompt 

• Polydactyly Fingers or Toes Foot or hand Deformities Corrective Surgery in India
• Congenital Extra Fingers or Toes Corrective Surgery in Delhi

Types of Polydactyly

1. Preaxial Polydactyly: Extra digits on the thumb side of the hand (radial polydactyly) or big toe side of the foot (tibial polydactyly).
2. Postaxial Polydactyly:Extra digits on the pinky side of the hand (ulnar polydactyly) or the little toe side of the foot (fibular polydactyly).This is the most common type of polydactyly.
3. Central Polydactyly:Extra digits located in the middle three fingers of the hand or the middle three toes of the foot.

How is polydactyly diagnosed? 

Polydactyly is typically diagnosed through a combination of physical examination and imaging studies. Here are the steps commonly involved in the diagnosis process:

1. Physical Examination

Observation at Birth:

• Image: A photograph showing a newborn with visible extra fingers or toes.
• Description: This image typically shows an infant's hand or foot with an extra digit.

2. Imaging Studies

X-Rays:

• Image: X-ray images of a hand or foot showing the bone structure, including the extra digit(s).
• Description: X-rays provide detailed images of the bones and joints of the extra digit. They are crucial for planning surgical interventions if needed.

Prenatal Ultrasound:

• Image: Ultrasound images showing a fetus with an extra digit.
• Description: These images can detect polydactyly before birth during routine prenatal scans, particularly if there is a known family history.

What are the treatment options for polydactyly?

The treatment for polydactyly depends on the type and complexity of the extra digit(s), as well as the overall health and needs of the patient. Here are the primary treatment options:

1. Observation

When It's Used:

• If the extra digit is small and non-functional.
• If it does not interfere with hand or foot function.
• If there are no cosmetic concerns from the patient or family.

2. Non-Surgical Treatment

Ligation:

• Used For: Small, non-functional extra digits (typically postaxial).
• Procedure: The base of the extra digit is tied off with a suture, cutting off the blood supply. The extra digit then falls off naturally over a few weeks.
• Age: Usually performed on newborns.

3. Surgical Removal

When It's Used:

• When the extra digit is functional or partially functional.
• When the extra digit interferes with the normal function of the hand or foot.
• For cosmetic reasons.

Types of Surgical Procedures:

1. Simple Excision:

   • Procedure: Removal of the extra digit by cutting it away from the hand or foot.
   • Used For: Extra digits that are attached by soft tissue only.

2. Complex Excision and Reconstruction:

   • Procedure: Removal of the extra digit followed by reconstruction of the area. This may involve realigning bones, tendons, and ligaments.
   • Used For: Extra digits that have bone and joint involvement.

3. Pollicization:

   • Procedure: Sometimes used when the thumb is duplicated or malformed. The extra thumb may be removed, and the remaining thumb is reconstructed for optimal function.
   • Used For: Preaxial polydactyly (thumb duplication).

4. Post-Surgical Care

Physical Therapy:

• When It's Needed: After surgery to ensure proper function and mobility.
• What It Involves: Exercises to strengthen the hand or foot, improve range of motion, and reduce stiffness.

Follow-Up Visits:

• Purpose: To monitor healing, check for complications, and assess function.
• Frequency: Typically involves several follow-up visits after surgery.

5. Considerations and Risks

Age of Surgery:

• Surgery is often performed when the child is between 1 to 2 years old to minimize anesthesia risks and ensure proper hand or foot development.

Risks:

• Infection, scarring, or damage to surrounding tissues.
• Need for additional surgeries if complications arise or if the initial surgery does not achieve the desired outcome.

Outcome:

• Most children recover well and achieve good function and appearance.
• Early intervention often results in better functional and cosmetic outcomes.

FAQ: Polydactyly

1. What is polydactyly?

• Polydactyly is a congenital condition characterized by the presence of extra fingers or toes. It is one of the most common congenital hand and foot anomalies.

2. How common is polydactyly?

• Polydactyly occurs in about 1 in 500 to 1 in 1,000 live births. It is more common in African-American populations.

3. What causes polydactyly?

• Polydactyly can be inherited as an autosomal dominant trait, meaning only one parent needs to carry the gene for it to be passed on. It can also occur as a spontaneous mutation and is sometimes associated with genetic syndromes.

4. What are the different types of polydactyly?

• Preaxial Polydactyly: Extra digits on the thumb side of the hand or big toe side of the foot.
• Postaxial Polydactyly: Extra digits on the pinky side of the hand or little toe side of the foot.
• Central Polydactyly: Extra digits in the middle of the hand or foot (less common).

5. How is polydactyly diagnosed?

• Polydactyly is usually diagnosed at birth through a physical examination. In some cases, prenatal ultrasound can detect the condition. X-rays are often used to understand the bone structure of the extra digits.

6. What are the treatment options for polydactyly?

• Treatment depends on the type and complexity of the extra digit:
  • Observation: If the extra digit is small and non-functional.
  • Ligation: For small, soft-tissue digits, typically performed on newborns.
  • Surgical Removal: Recommended for functional or cosmetic reasons. This involves removing the extra digit and reconstructing the area if necessary.

7. At what age is polydactyly surgery typically performed?

• Surgery is often performed when the child is between 1 to 2 years old to minimize anesthesia risks and to ensure proper hand or foot development.

8. What can I expect during the recovery period after polydactyly surgery?

• Recovery involves managing pain, keeping the surgical site clean, and attending follow-up appointments. Physical therapy may be recommended to ensure proper function and mobility.

9. Are there any risks associated with polydactyly surgery?

• As with any surgery, there are risks including infection, scarring, and potential damage to surrounding tissues. However, these risks are generally low, and the benefits of improved function and appearance usually outweigh the risks.

10. Can polydactyly affect a person’s ability to use their hands or feet?

• In many cases, polydactyly does not significantly affect function. However, if the extra digit interferes with normal movement or usage, surgical removal can help improve functionality.

11. Is polydactyly associated with other health conditions?

• Polydactyly can occur as an isolated condition or as part of a genetic syndrome. Syndromes associated with polydactyly include Ellis-van Creveld syndrome, Greig cephalopolysyndactyly syndrome, and Bardet-Biedl syndrome.

12. What type of doctor should I see for polydactyly?

• The relevant specialists include pediatric orthopedic surgeons, pediatric hand surgeons, plastic surgeons with experience in congenital hand anomalies, and geneticists if a genetic syndrome is suspected.

13. How can I support my child with polydactyly?

• Providing emotional support, seeking medical advice from specialists, and considering surgical options if necessary can help. Joining support groups for families with similar experiences can also be beneficial.

14. Is polydactyly preventable?

• Since polydactyly is often genetic or due to spontaneous mutations, it is not preventable. However, genetic counseling can help families understand the risks and implications.

For more information on treatment of pediatric polydactyly , please call  at +91 88824-24372 |+91 99106 55125  or Write us at :query@satyughealthcare.com