Syndactyly

What is Syndactyly?

Syndactyly is a congenital condition in which two or more fingers (or toes) are fused together. It may involve only the skin or also the bones and joints. Syndactyly is one of the most common congenital hand anomalies and can range from simple webbing between fingers to complex fusion involving bones and nails.

Early diagnosis and surgical correction can help restore normal hand function and improve appearance.

Key Facts About Syndactyly

• Affects approximately 1 in every 2,000–3,000 live births
• More common in boys than girls
• Usually affects the third and fourth fingers
• May occur on its own or as part of a genetic syndrome
• Can involve one or both hands

Causes of Syndactyly

Syndactyly typically develops between the 6th and 8th weeks of fetal development when the fingers fail to fully separate. It may be:

• Isolated (non-syndromic) – most common form
• Syndromic – associated with genetic syndromes like Apert, Poland, or Holt-Oram
• Familial – can run in families
• Occasionally caused by environmental factors during pregnancy

Symptoms and Consequences

Visible Signs:

• Fingers joined by skin or deeper tissues
• Limited hand or finger movement
• Abnormally shaped or shortened fingers
• Curved or angled digits (in complex cases)

If Left Untreated:

• Difficulty in grasping or fine motor skills
• Impaired growth of affected fingers
• Psychological impact due to cosmetic appearance
• Deformity becomes more complex with growth

Syndactyly Treatment at Child OrthoCare

Dr. Nargesh Agrawal provides expert, individualized care for all types of syndactyly—from simple webbing to complex bony fusion.

1. Detailed Assessment:

• Physical examination
• X-rays to determine extent of fusion
• Genetic evaluation if associated with other conditions

2. Surgical Separation:

• Usually performed between 6 months and 2 years of age
• Skin grafts may be used to cover separated areas
• Aesthetic techniques ensure minimal scarring and good finger contour
• Complex syndactyly may require multiple surgeries

3. Postoperative Care:

• Bandaging and splinting to protect healing fingers
• Physical therapy to restore motion and strength
• Regular follow-up to monitor finger growth

Did You Know?

• Surgery timing is critical — early enough to allow normal hand development, but safe enough for anesthesia and healing
• Syndactyly can be symmetrical (both hands affected) or asymmetrical
• In mild cases, function may be preserved, but appearance and dexterity still benefit from surgery
• Skin grafts are often taken from the groin or forearm and heal well in children

Myths and Facts

Myth: Fused fingers are just a cosmetic issue.
Fact: They can affect function, especially grip, pinch, and fine motor skills.

Myth: Only the skin is involved.
Fact: Many cases involve bone, nail, and joint fusion, requiring specialized surgery.

Myth: All cases need immediate surgery after birth.
Fact: Surgery is best timed between 6–24 months, depending on severity and finger involvement.

Myth: Results are purely cosmetic.
Fact: Surgical correction improves both function and appearance.