When Baby’s Hand Looks Strange: Unusual Congenital Conditions
If your baby was born with unusual appearing hands, you may be alarmed. But here is no need to panic. Thanks to modern medicine, board-certified hand surgeons like Dr. Uzma Rehman in Oakland County can offer advanced surgical interventions that will enable you child to achieve a “normal” hand appearance – and live a full and fulfilling life.
In this article, top Oakland County hand surgeon Dr. Uzma Rehman discusses some congenital hand anomalies that affect the structure and function of the hand – and she explores the various treatment options and medical interventions that are available.
Congenital Baby Hand Abnormalities
These conditions result from developmental abnormalities during fetal development. Some of the unusual congenital hand conditions include:
Ectrodactyly (Split Hand/Foot)
Ectrodactyly, also known as split hand/foot malformation (SHFM), is characterized by a deep cleft between the fingers or toes, resulting in a claw-like appearance. This condition can vary in severity, and affected individuals may also have missing digits or underdeveloped hands and feet.
For children with ectrodactyly, a skilled hand surgeon like Dr. Uzma Rehman can offer surgical intervention tailored to the specific type and severity of the condition. Surgical procedures may involve reconstructive techniques to enhance hand function and appearance. Depending on the individual case, Dr. Rehman may create fingers through bone grafts or use tissue from other parts of the body to improve hand structure and mobility.
Our skilled and highly trained hand therapists can also provide essential post-surgery rehabilitation, including hand exercises and therapeutic techniques to optimize hand function and aid in the healing process.
Syndactyly (Fused Fingers)
Syndactyly is a condition where two or more fingers or toes are fused together. It can involve varying degrees of fusion and can affect one or both hands or feet. Syndactyly may occur along the entire length of the fingers/toes or only involve specific segments.
Board Certified hand surgeons like Dr. Uzma Rehman can perform surgical separation of fused fingers or toes in cases of syndactyly. The surgeon will carefully separate the digits while preserving essential structures like nerves and blood vessels.
Our certified hand therapists then play a crucial role in your child’s post-surgical care, offering specialized hand exercises and therapy to improve finger mobility, strength, and coordination.
Polydactyly (Extra Fingers)
Polydactyly is a condition where a child is born with extra fingers or toes. The extra digits can be fully formed or rudimentary, and they may occur on one or both hands or feet. Polydactyly can range from a minor, non-functional digit to a fully formed extra finger/toe.
For children with polydactyly, board certified hand surgeons like Dr. Uzma Rehman can perform surgical removal or repositioning of the extra fingers or toes. After surgery, our experienced hand therapists will provide tailored rehabilitation programs to support hand function and encourage proper hand use and dexterity following surgery.
Apert Syndrome (Mitten Hands)
Apert syndrome is a rare genetic disorder characterized by craniosynostosis (premature fusion of skull bones) accompanied by syndactyly (above) of the hands and feet. The fused fingers and toes give the hands and feet a mitten-like appearance.
For children with Apert syndrome, board certified hand surgeons like Dr. Uzma Rehman in Oakland County can perform surgical separation of fused fingers or toes and address other hand abnormalities. Surgery may involve complex procedures to reconstruct the hand and improve function.
Following surgery, our skilled and compassionate hand therapists will offer specialized therapy to maximize hand function and facilitate proper hand use and grasp patterns after surgery.
Amniotic Band Syndrome
Amniotic band syndrome occurs when fibrous bands from the inner lining of the amniotic sac entangle and constrict fetal limbs during development. In the hand, this can lead to various problems and may even result in the loss of fingers or parts of the hand.
Hand surgeons like Dr. Uzma Rehman in Oakland County can provide surgical intervention to correct hand problems caused by amniotic band syndrome. Surgical procedures may involve releasing constricting bands and reconstructing affected structures. Our hand therapists will work closely with the surgical team to provide comprehensive post-operative therapy, including hand exercises and activities to optimize hand function and promote healing.
Poland Syndrome (Missing Fingers)
Poland syndrome is a rare condition characterized by underdevelopment or absence of the chest muscles on one side of the body. It also may often (but not always) involve abnormalities in the hand, such as missing fingers, underdeveloped hand muscles, or shorter fingers.
For children with Poland syndrome, hand surgeons can perform reconstructive surgery to address underdeveloped or missing muscles and fingers. Surgical techniques may involve grafting or using tissue from other parts of the body to enhance hand appearance and function.
Ulnar Dimelia (Mirror Hand)
Ulnar dimelia, also known as mirror hand, is a very rare congenital condition where the hand has an extra thumb on the ulnar side (pinky side) and may have a partially duplicated ulna bone.
For children with ulnar dimelia, a hand surgeon can assess the hand’s unique anatomy and provide individualized surgical treatment to address the extra thumb and any associated abnormalities. Surgical procedures may involve repositioning or reconstructing the thumb and hand structures. Our certified hand therapists will also collaborate with the surgical team to deliver targeted therapy, including hand exercises and functional training, to enhance hand use and dexterity after the reconstructive surgery.
Top Hand Surgeon | Oakland County
It is important to note that the impact of these congenital hand conditions can vary significantly, and treatment options will depend on the specific condition, its severity, and the individual baby or child’s needs. Early diagnosis, timely intervention and correction, and appropriate medical care can help babies who are born with these conditions adapt and achieve the best possible hand function and quality of life.
If your child was born with a congenital condition of the hand, finding a board-certified hand surgeon like Dr. Uzma Rehman is an important step towards optimal care. Dr. will help guide you through the evaluation and treatment options for your child’s unique hand condition with the highest level of expertise and compassion.
Her caring approach will ensure that you and your child feel supported throughout the treatment journey, with a focus on achieving the best possible hand function and appearance – so they can live a full, normal and happy life.
