polydactyly
Pronunciation: pol-ee-DAK-ti-lee
A congenital condition characterized by the presence of extra fingers or toes, classified as preaxial (radial/tibial side) or postaxial (ulnar/fibular side) depending on location.
Full Definition
Polydactyly is a common congenital hand and foot anomaly characterized by the presence of supernumerary digits. The condition is classified anatomically as preaxial (radial side of hand, tibial side of foot) or postaxial (ulnar side of hand, fibular side of foot), with postaxial polydactyly being more common overall. The extra digits can range from small skin tags to fully formed digits with bone, joints, and tendons. The condition has different prevalence rates among ethnic groups, with postaxial polydactyly being more common in African American populations. Treatment typically involves surgical removal of the extra digit, with timing depending on the complexity of the duplication and functional considerations. Simple skin tag duplications may be removed in the nursery, while complex duplications requiring tendon transfers or joint reconstructions are typically addressed around 1-2 years of age.
Usage
Usage note: Specify preaxial or postaxial location; distinguish from other digit anomalies like syndactyly.
In Context
- "The newborn presented with bilateral postaxial polydactyly of the hands." — Birth examination note
- "Surgical excision of the preaxial polydactyly was planned after detailed imaging assessment." — Surgical consultation note