Polydactyly Foot
Polydactyly is a congenital condition that causes an individual to be born with extra fingers or toes. This condition, while generally harmless, can affect both the hands and feet, with the presence of an additional digit on the foot known as polydactyly foot. The condition can vary in severity, from a fully formed extra toe to a smaller piece of soft tissue attached to the existing toes.
Polydactyly affects about 1 in every 2,000 births and is more common in the hands than in the feet. While the presence of an extra toe may not cause pain, it can lead to challenges in finding appropriate footwear and may have emotional impacts on the individual and their family. Polydactyly foot surgery is often recommended to correct the condition, particularly when the extra digit interferes with walking, wearing shoes, or other daily activities.
Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment of Polydactyly
What is Polydactyly?
Polydactyly is a congenital condition in which an extra digit forms on the hand or foot. When this extra digit appears on the foot, it is referred to as polydactyly foot. The extra toe may be fully functional with bone and joints, or it may be a smaller, less developed piece of tissue. The condition can affect any toe, but it most commonly involves the fifth digit, also known as postaxial polydactyly.
The classification of polydactyly depends on the location of the extra digit:
→ Preaxial Polydactyly
→ Central Polydactyly
→ Postaxial Polydactyly
What Causes Polydactyly?
Polydactyly is a genetic condition that can occur even in the absence of other foot dysfunctions. It may run in families, or it could be an isolated incident with no previous family history. The condition can also be associated with certain genetic syndromes, such as Greig cephalopolysyndactyly syndrome, which affects the limbs, head, and face, or Bardet-Biedl syndrome, a disorder impacting multiple systems in the body. Both of these syndromes are rare and involve more complex genetic anomalies.
During fetal development, the cells responsible for forming fingers and toes may overgrow, leading to the formation of an extra digit. The exact cause of this overgrowth is not always clear, but it is often linked to genetic and environmental factors during pregnancy.
How is Polydactyly Diagnosed?
Diagnosing polydactyly typically involves a physical examination of the affected foot. However, to gain a clearer understanding of the condition, an X-ray is necessary. X-rays help determine the exact structure of the extra digit, revealing whether it contains bone, cartilage, or is composed mainly of soft tissue. This information is crucial for planning polydactyly foot surgery if needed.
How is Polydactyly Treated?
→ Conservative Treatment
→ Surgical Procedure
→ Polydactyly Foot Surgery
→ Post-Surgical Care
→ Pre-Surgical Planning
Polydactyly FAQs
Polydactyly is a condition where a person is born with extra fingers or toes. When it occurs in the foot, it is referred to as polydactyly foot. The extra digit can range from a small piece of soft tissue to a fully formed toe with bone and joints.
Polydactyly is caused by an abnormality in fetal development, where the cells that form fingers and toes overgrow, resulting in an extra digit. The exact cause is often unknown, but it may involve genetic or environmental factors during pregnancy.
Yes, polydactyly is classified based on the location of the extra digit. Postaxial polydactyly,
where the extra toe grows next to the fifth toe, is the most common type. Preaxial
polydactyly involves extra growth near the big toe, and central polydactyly occurs in the
middle of the foot.
The standard treatment for polydactyly foot is surgical removal of the extra digit. Conservative treatment, such as wearing accommodative shoes, is an option if surgery is not immediately necessary.
While not always necessary, surgery is often recommended for functional and cosmetic reasons, especially if the extra digit interferes with walking, shoe fitting, or daily activities.
Conclusion
Polydactyly, or the presence of extra toes, is a relatively common congenital condition that can be effectively managed through polydactyly foot surgery. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for ensuring the best possible outcome, both functionally and cosmetically. If you or your child has been diagnosed with polydactyly, consulting with an experienced surgeon who specializes in foot conditions is essential.
Dr. Chandan Narang is a leading expert in polydactyly foot surgery. With his extensive experience and commitment to achieving the best results, Dr. Narang is dedicated to helping both children and adults lead healthy, active lives. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Chandan Narang today to discuss your condition and explore the most effective treatment options for polydactyly.