What Are Congenital Hand Differences?

Unique Hand Treatments

Congenital anomalies are differences that are present at birth. Any type of anomaly in a newborn infant can become a challenge for the child as he or she grows. Hand differences can be particularly disabling as the child learns to interact with the environment through the use of his or her hands. The degree of anomaly varies from a minor difference, such as a digital disproportion, to a severe issue such as total absence of a finger or hand.

Early consultation with a qualified paediatric hand surgeon is an important part of the treatment process for the child born with a hand difference. Even if reconstructive surgery is not a possibility, there are many different types of prosthetic devices that can be used to increase function.

So, what are the different classifications of congenital hand differences?

Dr. Thomas will be able to assess the hand during an initial consultation and provide specific outcomes for a patient’s unique situation. These different classifications include;

Problems in development of the parts
– This occurs when parts of the body stop developing while the baby is in the womb, causing either a complete absence of a part of the body, such as the hand, or a missing structure, such as part of the arm bone.

Failure of parts of the hand to separate
– With this type of anomaly, the parts of the hand, either the bones and/or the tissues, fail to separate in the womb. The most common type of this classification is syndactyly. This deformity is when two or more fingers are fused together. If the fingers are completely fused together, it is considered complete. There are two types of syndactyly, including the following:

  • Simple syndactyly. This involves fusion between only the skin of the fingers.
  • Complex syndactyly. This involves fusion between the bones.

Dr. Thomas is able to treat these unique hand differences through a variety of different methods.

Given the nature of any potential procedure, Dr Thomas encourages all patients to schedule a consultation to discuss the potential surgical procedure. To schedule a consultation to discuss your options, you can reach Dr. Thomas at the Melbourne Institute of Plastic Surgery on 03 9034 7738.

 


MAKING AN INFORMED DECISION

Our website is intended to provide general information about hand surgery and should not be used as a substitute for personalised medical advice. It is important to consult with a qualified plastic surgeon to determine if hand surgery is the right procedure for you. The following considerations should be part of your decision-making process.

Risks

All surgical procedures carry risk. The potential risks and complications associated with hand surgery include, but are not limited to, bleeding, infection, nerve damage, stiffness, loss of feeling or movement of the hand or fingers, scarring, and the need for additional surgery. It is important to understand the risks involved and weigh up the benefits and drawbacks of surgery before undergoing hand surgery.

Recovery

Recovery time after hand surgery may vary depending on the individual, the extent of the procedure, and the technique used. In general, patients should be prepared to experience some discomfort, swelling, and limited mobility after surgery. Patients must also be prepared to take time off work and other activities (including exercise) and follow post-operative instructions to promote proper healing and minimise the risk of complications.

Results

Individual results may vary depending on a number of factors, including the patient’s natural hand structure, the patient’s lifestyle, and the surgical technique employed. It is critical to have realistic expectations about the outcome of hand surgery and understand that each patient’s outcome will be unique. A physical therapy rehabilitation program after hand surgery is often crucial to regain function and  improve range of motion.

If you have any questions or concerns about hand surgery, please do not hesitate to contact us