Name of the Procedure:

Repair of Syndactyly (Webbed Fingers) Each Web Space; with Skin Flaps

Summary

This surgical procedure involves separating webbed fingers and reconstructing the area using skin flaps. This is a common surgery in children born with syndactyly, a condition where two or more fingers are fused together.

Purpose

The primary purpose of this procedure is to separate fused fingers to improve hand function and appearance. The goal is to provide the patient with better finger movement and functionality, allowing for normal growth and usage of the hand.

Indications

Patients who present with congenital syndactyly, specifically those with fingers fused together by skin, soft tissues, or bones. Criteria include reduced hand function, limitations in daily activities, or abnormal hand appearance affecting the patient’s quality of life.

Preparation

Patients may be required to fast for a certain period before surgery. Medication adjustments, such as pausing blood thinners, might be necessary. Preoperative assessments typically include physical examinations and imaging studies like X-rays or ultrasounds.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is put under general anesthesia.
2. Incisions are made to separate the fused fingers.
3. Skin flaps, often harvested from other parts of the hand or body, are used to cover the newly exposed areas.
4. The flaps are carefully sutured in place to ensure proper healing and functionality.
5. A sterile dressing is applied to protect the surgical site.

Tools and equipment include surgical knives, scissors, flaps sutures, and surgical drapes. Anesthesia is administered to ensure a pain-free procedure.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 2-3 hours, depending on the complexity and number of web spaces treated.

Setting

Surgery is usually performed in a hospital or surgical center equipped with facilities for pediatric surgery.

Personnel

The procedure involves a team that includes a pediatric or orthopedic hand surgeon, surgical nurses, an anesthesiologist, and possibly a plastic surgeon for the skin flaps.

Risks and Complications

Common risks include infection, bleeding, and reactions to anesthesia. Rare complications may involve scarring, issues with skin graft integration, or recurrence of the condition. These are managed with antibiotics, proper wound care, and follow-up surgeries if necessary.

Benefits

The expected benefits include improved hand function, a more normal hand appearance, and enhanced quality of life. Results are typically observed once the initial healing phase is complete, within a few weeks to months.

Recovery

Post-procedure care involves keeping the hand elevated, using splints or casts, and attending follow-up appointments for wound checks and physical therapy. Full recovery can take several weeks to months, with restrictions on heavy usage or impact activities.

Alternatives

Other treatment options include conservative management or less invasive surgical techniques. The pros of alternatives might include shorter recovery times, while cons may involve less effective long-term results.

Patient Experience

Patients will be under anesthesia during the procedure and should not feel pain. Post-surgery, pain management includes medications prescribed by the doctor. Patients may experience some discomfort, swelling, and a need to adapt to temporary limitations in hand use during recovery.