About Polydactyly
During the first trimester of gestation, a fetus's hand development starts as paddles which will later separate into 5 fingers. In case of an error in this process, Polydactyly happens. In most cases, a specific cause has not been identified. Sometimes genetic abnormalities or hereditary syndromes cause this. If polydactyly is not passed down, it occurs due to a change in a baby’s genes while it is in the womb.
What is Polydactyly?
Polydactyly is a condition where a person is born with more than the usual number of fingers or toes. Polydactyly, also known as hyperdactyly, is a medical condition characterized by the presence of extra fingers or toes. The term “polydactyly” comes from the Greek words “polys,” meaning “many,” and “daktylos,” meaning "digits". Polydactyly is one of the most common birth defects affecting babies’ hands and feet1. It can occur in various forms, with the extra digit being fully formed and functional, partially formed with some bone, or just a small mass of soft tissue2. The extra digit often grows next to the fifth finger or toe. There are several types of polydactylies, classified by the position of the extra digit:
Preaxial (radial/tibial) polydactyly: An extra thumb or big toe.
Central polydactyly: An extra finger or toe near the middle digits.
Postaxial (ulnar/fibular) polydactyly: An extra pinkie finger or toe.
Polydactyly can affect any newborn baby, but it’s more common in African babies and male babies. It can also be associated with certain genetic disorders. Despite being one of the most common congenital conditions, these issues as a whole are still relatively rare.
Who does polydactyly affect?
Polydactyly can affect any newborn baby. It is one of the most common congenital conditions, which means it is present from birth. However, these issues as a whole are still relatively rare. African babies are 10 times more likely than white babies to be born with polydactyly. In addition, male babies are more likely to be born with polydactyly than female babies.
Your child might be more likely to develop polydactyly if you have a family history of genetic disorders — especially if any of your immediate relatives (like your biological grandparents, parents, or siblings) were born with extra fingers or toes. Being born with extra digits doesn’t guarantee your child will have developmental disorders or any other conditions. Around 1 in 1,000 babies born each year has some form of polydactyly. Even if it’s one of the most common congenital conditions, these issues as a whole are still relatively rare.
What are the symptoms of polydactyly?
The symptoms of polydactyly can vary, and the extra digit or digits may be:
A small, raised lump of soft tissue, containing no bones (called a nubbin)
A partially formed finger or toe containing some bones but no joints
A fully functioning finger or toe with tissues, bones, and joints
There are three main types of polydactylies:
Ulnar or postaxial polydactyly or small finger duplication: This is the most common form of the condition, where the extra finger is on the outside of the little finger. This side of the hand is known as the ulnar side. When this form of the condition affects the toes, it is called fibular polydactyly.
Radial or preaxial polydactyly or thumb duplication: This is less common, occurring in 1 in every 1,000 to 10,000 live births. The extra finger is on the outside of the thumb. This side of the hand is known as the radial side. When this form of the condition affects the toes, it is called tibial polydactyly.
Central polydactyly: This is a rare type of polydactyly. The extra finger is attached to the ring, middle, or most often index finger. This form of the condition has the same name when it affects the toes.
Polydactyly may be passed down in families. When polydactyly is passed down, it is known as familial polydactyly. This form of polydactyly typically happens in isolation, meaning a person may not experience any associated symptoms.
What are the types of Polydactyly?
Ulnar or post-axial polydactyly or small finger duplication: The most common form of Polydactyly, which causes an extra finger on the outside of the little finger.
Radial or pre-axial polydactyly or thumb duplication: This less common form occurs on the outside of the thumb.
Central polydactyly: This is a rare type of polydactyly. During this, the extra finger is attached to the ring, middle, or most often index finger.
Polydactyly Treatment
How is polydactyly diagnosed?
Polydactyly is typically diagnosed at birth by observing extra digits on the hands or feet. The diagnosis may also be made prenatally through transvaginal ultrasound as early as nine weeks into pregnancy. Polydactyly is diagnosed either before birth with an ultrasound test or when the baby is born. The healthcare provider will identify any extra digits on the child’s hands or feet and will diagnose a type of polydactyly.
Once your child is born, x-rays will help their doctor see the underlying structure of your baby’s fingers and determine a course of treatment. The extra fingers are usually small and abnormally developed and can be made up of skin and soft tissue, skin, soft tissue, and bone but no joint, or skin, soft tissue, and bone with a joint.
The extra fingers can be located on the small finger side (most common), on the thumb side (also called thumb duplication and less common), or in the middle of the hand (least common). Providers sometimes refer to extra big toes as tibial polydactyly and extra pinkie toes as fibular polydactyly. Extra thumbs are sometimes called radial polydactyly and extra pinkie fingers are ulnar polydactyly.
How is polydactyly treated?
The method of removal depends on the location and structure of the extra digit. The treatment of polydactyly involves a combination of surgical and non-surgical interventions, depending on the severity and location of the extra digit. As with any medical procedure, it’s important to consult with healthcare professionals to understand the best course of treatment. There are several treatment options for polydactyly:
Surgical Ligature: If your child has an extra finger on their hand, they might only need what’s called a surgical ligature. Your provider will tie a tight string or band around the base of the extra finger that cuts off its blood supply.
In-Office Excision: Your provider might remove your baby’s extra digit during an office visit. This is called an in-office excision.
Polydactyly Surgery: In some cases, a more complex surgical procedure may be necessary to remove the extra digit. This is typically the case when the extra digit is fully formed and functional. The surgery is usually performed by a pediatric orthopedic surgeon or a hand surgeon.
After the procedure, physical therapy may be recommended to help the child regain full function of their hand or foot. The specific treatment plan will depend on the individual’s specific condition and needs.
Polydactyly surgery in Iran
Equipped hospitals, and advanced specialized centers with experienced doctors and specialists are available in all medical treatment areas in Iran. Also, good hotels and entertainment centers have made Iran an appropriate choice for patients who are suffering from Polydactyly (born with extra fingers).
Polydactyly surgery cost in Iran
The cost of polydactyly surgery in Iran can vary based on several factors, including the complexity of the surgery, the surgeon’s expertise, and the hospital or clinic where the procedure is performed. Iran is known for its advanced medical facilities and experienced doctors, making it a popular destination for patients seeking affordable treatment.
The cost of polydactyly surgery in Iran is around 2000 USD. This is significantly lower than in many other countries. This affordability is due to various factors, including lower living costs and medical expenses. It’s important to note that the final cost can vary depending on individual circumstances and additional medical needs. Therefore, it’s always recommended to consult with healthcare professionals and conduct thorough research when considering medical procedures abroad.
