Congenital Hand Anomalies in Ankara, Turkey

Congenital hand anomalies occur as a result of disorders in the development of the hand and fingers during the embryonic period. Polydactyly, syndactyly, and brachydactyly are among the most common forms. These anomalies can lead to aesthetic and functional problems.

Polydactyly is the presence of more fingers than normal and is often genetically inherited. Its forms can range from a simple soft-tissue appendage to a fully developed finger containing a functional joint. Surgical treatment is important in terms of function and appearance.

Syndactyly is the congenital fusion of two or more fingers. This fusion may be limited to the skin, or it may include bony fusion as well. Surgical separation is usually performed around 1–2 years of age and supports functional development.

Complex hand anomalies include conditions such as brachydactyly (short fingers), radial club hand, and complete absence of the hand. In these cases, a multidisciplinary approach is required. Surgical reconstructions, prosthetic applications, and rehabilitation are planned for the long term.

Things You Need to Know Information
Definition Congenital hand anomalies are structural disorders that occur with deformity and/or functional impairment of the hand due to incomplete limb development during the embryonal period.
Classification (IFSSH) 1. Failure of formation (e.g., radial aplasia), 2. Duplication (e.g., polydactyly), 3. Failure of differentiation (e.g., syndactyly), 4. Undergrowth, 5. Congenital constriction band syndrome, 6. Generalized skeletal abnormalities and deformities associated with syndromes.
Most Common Types Polydactyly (extra finger), syndactyly (fused fingers), brachydactyly (short fingers), radial/ulnar aplasia, amniotic band syndrome.
Causes Genetic mutations, chromosomal abnormalities (e.g., Trisomy 13), intrauterine developmental disorders, environmental factors (teratogen exposure), amniotic band syndrome.
Diagnostic Methods Diagnosis is made by physical examination after birth. Some anomalies can be detected with prenatal ultrasound. If necessary, genetic testing and radiological imaging are performed.
Functional Effects Difficulties with grasping, holding, and fine motor skills; aesthetic concerns; functional limitations such as asymmetry and balance impairment in hand use may occur.
Treatment Timing In mild deformities, surgery may be postponed. In severe cases that impair function, surgery is generally planned between 6 months and 2 years of age.
Surgical Treatments Removal of the extra finger (excision), separation of fused fingers, tendon transfers, bony reconstructions, rotational or graft surgeries.
Non-Surgical Approaches Improving function is targeted with orthosis use, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, developmental support, and family counseling.
Complications Wound-healing problems, recurrence, limitation of motion, re-deformity during growth, mismatch with aesthetic expectations.
Multidisciplinary Approach Collaboration among orthopedics, plastic surgery, physical therapy, child development, and psychological support units is recommended.
Long-Term Follow-Up Deformity should be monitored throughout growth, corrective secondary surgeries planned if needed, and functional development followed up.
Prof. Dr. Serdar Nasır
Specialist in Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery, Hand Surgery

He completed his medical education at Ankara University Faculty of Medicine in 1996 and his specialty training between 1996–2002 at Hacettepe University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery.

Between 2002–2009, he worked at Süleyman Demirel University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery.

Since 2009, he has been working at Hacettepe University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery. He received the title of Associate Professor in 2011. In 2019, Dr. Nasır became a Professor and continues to work as a faculty member in this position.

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    What Are Congenital Hand Anomalies?

    Congenital hand anomalies are structural differences that occur during a baby’s development in the womb and affect the bones, muscles, tendons, or finger structure of the hand. They can present in various forms such as missing fingers, fused fingers (syndactyly), or extra fingers (polydactyly). These anomalies can range from mild cosmetic issues to serious conditions that affect hand function, and an appropriate treatment plan requires multidisciplinary evaluation.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Among the most common congenital hand anomalies are syndactyly (fused fingers), polydactyly (extra fingers), brachydactyly (short fingers), and missing fingers. Each is based on different genetic or developmental causes.

    Yes, some congenital hand anomalies can be genetically inherited. However, in most cases the cause is unknown or related to environmental factors during pregnancy. If there is a family history, the risk may increase.

    Treatment is usually planned between 6 months and 2 years of age. Early intervention provides better results both aesthetically and functionally and supports the development of the child’s hand skills.

    After syndactyly surgery, fingers generally regain good function. However, in very extensive syndactyly, joint stiffness or deformities may remain. Physical therapy can improve outcomes.

    The function and location of the extra finger are evaluated. Nonfunctional or deforming digits are generally removed surgically. However, in some cases the structure may be preserved or reshaped.

    Microsurgery may be required in complex cases that require nerve, vessel, or tendon transfers. It is especially used for functional reconstruction in cases of missing digits or complex structural abnormalities.

    After successful surgeries performed at an early age, children can grasp objects, write, and play. However, in some children, repeated surgeries or physiotherapy may be required.

    Aesthetic results are generally successful; however, differences in finger length, scarring, or shape differences may be seen. With plastic surgery techniques, appearance can be improved to a large extent.

    Having a different appearance may lead to low self-esteem and social adjustment problems in a child. Early surgical correction and psychological support can reduce these effects.

    Yes, congenital hand anomalies may develop as part of some syndromic conditions. They may be seen together with other anomalies of the heart, face, or skeletal system, and multidisciplinary follow-up is required.

    For congenital hand anomalies, you should apply to the Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery. Plastic surgeons specialized in hand surgery plan surgical interventions to correct these problems functionally and aesthetically.