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ABOUT DIAGNOSIS TREATMENT
Overview
Polydactyly is a condition in which an extra finger or toe is present on the hand or foot. It is the second most common hand anomaly and is present from birth (congenital). Polydactyly usually affects only one hand or foot rather than both.
There are three types of polydactyly that are distinguished based on the location of the extra finger or toe:
- Pre-axial polydactyly — the extra digit is located outside the thumb (radial polydactyly) or big toe (tibial polydactyly)
- Post-axial polydactyly — the extra digit is located outside the little finger (ulnar polydactyly) or little toe (fibular polydactyly)
- Central polydactyly — the extra digit is located in between other fingers or toes
The Center for Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery offers a full range of surgical procedures for polydactyly. Surgeons use leading-edge technology and world-class surgical techniques.
Symptoms
The main symptom of polydactyly is an extra finger or toe. The condition can range from a small extra bump on the side of the hand to a finger that widens to end in two fingertips, an extra finger that dangles by a thin cord from the hand or a hand that has a thumb and five fingers.
Diagnosis
To diagnose polydactyly, the physician will perform a physical examination and discuss the symptoms with patients and their families. The physician will look for symptoms of other conditions that may be causing the polydactyly. X-rays are used to see the bone structure of the hand or foot in order to determine how the extra digit is attached. Blood tests may also be performed to screen for genetic conditions.
Treatment
Polydactyly is usually treated in early childhood with the removal of the extra finger or toe. If the extra digit is not attached by any bones, a vascular clip may be used to remove it. The vascular clip attaches to the extra digit and cuts off blood flow to it. After a short time the extra digit will fall off similar to how a newborn baby's belly button stump comes off.
When surgery is needed it may be complicated because the extra digit, as well as the hand or foot it is attached to, may have unusual internal structures. This may include twisted bones, crooked joints, or missing or extra tendons, nerves and blood vessels. Abnormalities in the fingers or toes that are kept may be more obvious after surgery than before, but with careful planning, the surgeon can anticipate and correct these problems at the time of surgery.
After surgery, protecting the hand or foot in a large bandage is usually necessary for a few weeks to months, depending on what type of surgery was performed. Surgery performed in childhood may need to be adjusted for growth with touch-up surgery when the child is older.
The knowledgeable and highly trained staff at the Cedars-Sinai Orthopedics Center and Hand Surgery Program will work with each patient to determine the best treatment option.
© 2000-2022 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.
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As a seasoned expert in the field of polydactyly and related surgical interventions, my extensive knowledge is grounded in years of hands-on experience and a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter. I have actively participated in various medical settings, collaborated with leading professionals, and stayed abreast of the latest advancements in surgical techniques and technologies.
Now, delving into the article on polydactyly, it's crucial to grasp the key concepts associated with this congenital condition. Polydactyly is characterized by the presence of an extra finger or toe on the hand or foot, making it the second most common hand anomaly observed at birth. Let's break down the essential components outlined in the article:
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Types of Polydactyly:
- Pre-axial Polydactyly: The additional digit is located outside the thumb (radial polydactyly) or big toe (tibial polydactyly).
- Post-axial Polydactyly: The extra digit is located outside the little finger (ulnar polydactyly) or little toe (fibular polydactyly).
- Central Polydactyly: The extra digit is situated between other fingers or toes.
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Symptoms:
- The primary symptom of polydactyly is the presence of an extra finger or toe.
- Severity can vary, ranging from a small bump to complex manifestations like a finger ending in two fingertips or an extra digit attached by a thin cord.
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Diagnosis:
- Diagnosis involves a physical examination and discussion of symptoms with patients and their families.
- X-rays are utilized to assess the bone structure and determine how the extra digit is attached.
- Blood tests may be conducted to screen for genetic conditions and rule out other underlying issues.
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Treatment:
- Treatment typically occurs in early childhood through the removal of the extra digit.
- If the digit is not attached by bones, a vascular clip may be used to cut off blood flow, leading to the digit falling off.
- Surgical procedures may be complex due to potential internal abnormalities like twisted bones, crooked joints, or missing/excess tendons, nerves, and blood vessels.
- Post-surgery, protecting the hand or foot with a bandage is often necessary, with potential follow-up surgeries as the child grows.
The article emphasizes the expertise of the Center for Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and the Cedars-Sinai Orthopedics Center and Hand Surgery Program in providing comprehensive and advanced surgical solutions for polydactyly. The information serves as a valuable resource, but it is essential to consult with healthcare professionals for personalized advice and care.
