Syndactyly

Excerpt

Syndactyly is 1 of the most common congenital anomalies of the extremities. Syndactyly refers to the soft tissue and/or osseous fusion of adjacent digits in the upper or lower extremity. This results in the appearance of "webbed" or "super" digits, depending on the extent of the anomaly. Syndactyly is described as simple or complex, depending on the bony fusion's presence (complex) or absence (simple). Complete syndactyly extends to the tip of the digits, including the nail folds, while incomplete syndactyly does not extend the full length of the digit. Complicated syndactyly is defined by interposed accessory phalanges or abnormal bones. The most prevalent location is between the second and third toe in the feet and between the long and ring fingers in the hand. Syndactyly is most likely to present as an isolated phenomenon following autosomal dominant inheritance with incomplete penetrance but is also associated with multiple genetic syndromes such as Apert and Poland syndrome. Syndactyly is better tolerated in the feet than the hand, where independent digital motion is needed. Except for mild cases, surgical separation of the digits is often indicated to optimize hand function (See Image. Syndactyly, a Common Congenital Anomaly of the Extremities).