Syndactyly

When care is sought for fingers or toes joined together since birth, it is usually the orthopedist or the plastic surgeon who evaluates the case. Syndactyly is a congenital malformation in which two or more fingers or toes remain fused, either by the skin or by deeper structures.

Features: the joining may be partial or complete and affect one or several digits; sometimes it occurs in isolation and other times it accompanies other syndromes.

Which specialist treats it? The pediatric orthopedist and the plastic surgeon are the ones who assess the anatomy of the hand or foot and guide follow-up. If you notice joined fingers or toes in a newborn, the most appropriate thing is to discuss it with one of these specialists for a detailed evaluation.