Syndactyly

Abstract

Syndactyly is a common congenital limb malformation caused by failure of formation or differentiation of an unspecified axis of the hand plate. Syndactyly has a wide range of phenotypes and is classified based on the structures involved, the length of the digit involved, and whether it occurs in isolation or within the setting of a syndrome. Surgery is the mainstay of treatment with the primary goal of restoring form and function by creating an adequate web space and providing sufficient skin coverage after digit separation. Skin flaps with or without the use of skin grafts are the primary techniques utilized for syndactyly repair with a multitude of skin flap designs described in the literature. This chapter provides an overview of the etiology, classification, and management of syndactyly, including surgical techniques, special considerations, outcomes, and long-term management.