At a glance
Main symptoms
- Fusion between fingers (skin bridge)
- In some cases, fusion of finger bones
- Different lengths between fused fingers
- Hospital stay
- Usually 1 overnight hospital stay; same-day discharge in some cases.
- Recovery time
- 6–8 weeks
- Return to work
- For infants/toddlers, no work concept; return to normal activity and play 6-8 weeks later.
Syndactyly is congenital fusion of two or more fingers. One of the most common congenital hand anomalies at birth (approximately 1 in 2000 live births). Classified as complete or incomplete, simple (only soft tissues fused) or complex (bone fusion also). Most commonly between the 3rd and 4th fingers. Early surgical treatment separates fingers and restores normal hand function.
Symptoms
Clinical appearance:
- Fusion between fingers (skin bridge)
- In some cases, fusion of finger bones
- Different lengths between fused fingers
- Nail deformities may accompany
- Generally painless but limited function
- In some cases, other accompanying anomalies (syndromic form)
Diagnostic Methods
Easily diagnosed by clinical examination at birth. X-rays evaluate fusion degree; presence/absence of bone involvement and length of finger segments are visualized. In suspected syndromic forms (Poland syndrome, Apert syndrome, etc.), pediatric and genetic consultation are recommended.
Treatment Approach
Non-Surgical Treatments
No non-surgical treatment option exists for syndactyly. Surgical separation is needed for both functional and cosmetic reasons.
Surgical Treatment
Surgical separation (syndactyly release) is the standard treatment. Ideal timing is 12-18 months (prevents contracture development). In surgery: separation is performed using flap (skin advancement) techniques between fingers; full-thickness skin graft is used for areas with insufficient skin (usually from inguinal region).
Surgical Process
Performed under general anesthesia. Procedure duration 1.5-3 hours. Requires careful dissection and flap arrangement under microscope.
Hospital Stay
Usually 1 overnight hospital stay; same-day discharge in some cases.
Recovery Process
- First week: Light dressing, swelling control, immobilization
- Weeks 1-3: Initial dressing changes, graft checks, suture removal
- Weeks 3-6: Splint in protective position, light exercises
- Weeks 6-8: Full activity, normal use
- Months 3-6: Softening of scars, functional maturation
Return to Work
For infants/toddlers, no work concept; return to normal activity and play 6-8 weeks later.
Potential Complications
Complication rate is low. Possible problems: scar contracture (may develop with growth, may require future revision), graft failure, infection, nail deformities, asymmetry in appearance between fingers.
Frequently asked questions
At what age should surgery be done?
General consensus is between 12-18 months. In very complex cases, earlier (6 months) may be done. Functional results are worse if performed after age 3.
Will there be problems as the child grows?
After properly performed syndactyly surgery, children largely have normal hand function. Revision may rarely be needed during growth.
Is everything done in one session?
Fusions on both sides of the same finger are not done in one session because blood flow to the finger may be compromised. Usually two sessions 6 months apart.
This content is for information only and does not replace examination, diagnosis or treatment. The right treatment for you is decided after an examination.