Orthopedics: Conditions

Congenital Hand Defects & Abnormalities

Babies born with hands that are different than the normal hand have a congenital hand defect. Some congenital hand differences may occur due to a genetic cause, but many congenital hand defects occur without an apparent cause.

Congenital Hand Defect Types

  • Failure of Formation – missing parts of the arm
  • Failure of Separation – webbed or fused parts of the hand
  • Duplication – extra parts present in the hand
  • Constriction Band Syndrome – undergrowth or overgrowth of parts of the hand

Congenital Hand Defect Treatment Options

Because there are so many different types of congenital hand deformities, it is important to be evaluated by an orthopedic hand specialist to help determine if any treatment is needed. Some congenital hand differences are associated with genetic disorders or other medical problems.

Depending on the type of congenital hand defect, surgical treatment may be recommended. Webbed fingers can be surgically separated and extra digits can be surgically removed with reconstruction of the remaining digit if necessary. Hand function can be improved if the functions of thumb pinch or finger grasp is compromised. Some congenital hand differences may need therapy to help improve hand function. In some cases, no intervention is necessary.

If you have questions, or to make an appointment, call: 404-778-3350.