Polydactyly is a congenital condition where a child is born with an extra finger or toe, ranging from a skin tag to a fully formed digit with bone, tendon and nerve. Simple cases are treated with excision under local anaesthetic in infancy, while more complex forms require formal reconstruction under general anaesthetic, typically between 12 and 18 months of age. Surgery aims to leave a hand or foot that functions and looks essentially normal.
Duration
1 – 2 hrs
Recovery
2 – 4 weeks
Anaesthesia
General anaesthesia
Setting
Day surgery
Splint for 2–4 weeks; wound care; hand therapy if required.
Normal-appearing hand with the appropriate number of digits; good functional and cosmetic outcome.
Common Questions
Book a consultation with Dr Ravin Patel to discuss your goals and find out if this procedure is right for you.