Professional
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
syndactyly release
Pronunciation: sin-DAK-tih-lee
Surgical separation of congenitally fused fingers or toes.
Full Definition
Syndactyly release involves surgical division of webbed or fused digits to create individual, functional fingers or toes. The procedure typically requires skin grafts to provide adequate coverage for the newly separated digits, often harvested from the groin or instep. Timing of surgery depends on the digits involved, with border digits (thumb-index, ring-small finger) requiring earlier intervention. The surgery aims to maximize function while creating cosmetically acceptable digit separation. Complications include skin graft loss, web creep, and digital stiffness.
Usage
Usage note: Specify which digits are involved and whether skin grafts were required.
In Context
- "The child underwent syndactyly release of the ring-small finger web with full-thickness skin grafts." — operative report
- "Complex syndactyly release may require multiple stages to avoid vascular compromise." — hand surgery journal
Also known as
web release
digit separation
Don't confuse with
polydactyly correction
camptodactyly release