Intermediate
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
syndactyly
Pronunciation: sin-DAK-ti-lee
Congenital fusion of two or more digits, commonly affecting fingers or toes.
Full Definition
A congenital anomaly characterized by the fusion of adjacent digits, which can involve skin only (simple syndactyly) or include bone and nail structures (complex syndactyly). This condition is one of the most common congenital hand differences, often requiring surgical separation for functional and cosmetic improvement. Syndactyly may occur as an isolated finding or as part of a genetic syndrome.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish between simple (skin only) and complex (involving bone/nail) types in documentation.
In Context
- "The infant presented with bilateral syndactyly of the third and fourth fingers." — neonatal assessment
- "Surgical correction of the simple syndactyly was planned for 12-18 months of age." — plastic surgery consultation
Also known as
webbed fingers
webbed toes
digit fusion
Contrasted with
polydactyly
Don't confuse with
polydactyly
clinodactyly