Syndactyly

Syndactyly is a medical term used to describe webbed fingers or toes.

This webbing can be found between the joints and is usually causes by genetics. Most of the time, webbing consists of an extra layer of skin only however in some cases, bones have also been a part of the webbing. Syndactyly is usually recognized in newborn infants.

Syndactyly is more common in males than females and is also more popular in Caucasian race than other races. There are a few causes of Syndactyly.

Down syndrome is one the leading causes in Syndactyly. Apert syndrome, Carpenter syndrome, Cornelia de Lange syndrome, Pfeiffer syndrome, and Smith-Lemli-Opitz syndrome may also be a factor in the development of Syndactyly. Syndactyly is commonly found in all these conditions bringing them all closer together.

If Syndactyly is found alone

it is most likely due to hereditary conditions. Syndactyly may also produce an extra finger or toe. This is called polydactyly. When you combine both conditions together you have polysyndactyly. It is not a guarantee that you will pass Syndactyly on to your child or children in the future if you have it or someone else in your family has it however you do need to expect it just incase.

Dr. Pillai can help in most cases of syndactyly. The procedure will be performed by Dr. Pillai and will consist of removing the webbing and grafting the skin. Then a cast will be placed on the area in order for it to heal. When the cast is removed three weeks later, DR. Pillai will then place a splint to wear over the next six weeks.

If the operation is on a child, Dr. Pillai may request that the child visit an occupational therapist while recovering in order to have complete control of the hands. In some rare cases, studies have linked syndactyly with cardiac problems. Dr. Pillai will discuss these concerns with you in your consultation. When you have the surgery, be prepared to be off work for a few weeks before you can return.

Have a list of questions that you want to ask Dr. Pillai. The more questions you ask, the more you understand what is going on and the better you will be at handling the situation. Syndactyly is not painful, in fact infants do get used to it because it has been there since birth. It is more of a cosmetic problem then anything.

For more information about Syndactyly contact Dr. Pillai today.