Polydactyly Treatment

What is Polydactyly?

Polydactyly is a condition where a child is born with extra fingers or toes. These additional digits may be fully formed or may appear as small skin tags or bony nubs. It is one of the most common congenital hand or foot differences. While not always painful, polydactyly can interfere with function, grip, balance, and appearance, and often requires surgical correction in early childhood.

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Key Facts About Polydactyly

• Occurs in about 1 in every 1,000 live births
• Can affect hands, feet, or both
• May be isolated or part of a genetic syndrome
• Extra digits are often on the outer side (postaxial) of hands or feet
• Surgery is usually performed between 6–12 months of age

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Causes of Polydactyly

• Genetic mutations during limb development
• Family history of hand or foot anomalies
• Can be part of syndromes like Ellis-van Creveld or Carpenter syndrome
• In most cases, the cause is unknown and not preventable

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Symptoms and Consequences

Types of Polydactyly:

• Postaxial (most common): Extra finger next to the little finger or toe
• Preaxial: Extra thumb or big toe
• Central: Rare; extra digits in the middle of the hand or foot

If Left Untreated:

• May affect hand function or shoe fitting
• Cosmetic concerns and psychological impact
• Bone misalignment or growth problems if extra digit is large or functional

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Treatment of Polydactyly at Child OrthoCare

At Child OrthoCare, Dr. Nargesh Agrawal provides expert surgical care for children with polydactyly using advanced pediatric orthopedic techniques. 1. Evaluation and Imaging:

• Clinical assessment of digit structure, movement, and alignment
• X-rays to understand bone, joint, and tendon involvement
• Genetic counseling if needed

2. Surgical Treatment:

• Simple excision for soft-tissue extra digits
• Reconstructive surgery for well-formed bones and joints
• Restoration of normal appearance and function
• Surgery done under general anesthesia in a child-safe environment

3. Post-Surgery Care:

• Dressings and pain management
• Follow-up visits to monitor healing
• In some cases, physiotherapy for strength and range of motion

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Did You Know?

• Polydactyly can be as minor as a small skin nub or as complex as a fully formed digit
• The condition may run in families, especially among certain populations
• Early surgery helps in better integration of function and appearance
• Children adapt quickly after surgery and regain full use of hands or feet

Myths and Facts About Polydactyly

Myth: Polydactyly is only cosmetic. Fact: It can also affect grip, balance, and movement. Myth: Extra fingers always work like normal ones. Fact: Most extra digits lack bones, tendons, or function. Myth: Treatment should wait until the child grows older. Fact: Earlier correction leads to better outcomes and minimal scarring. Myth: It’s a sign of a serious disease. Fact: Most cases are isolated and not linked to major health conditions.