Hand deformities in children can range from minor concerns to significant conditions that impact
a child's development and quality of life. These deformities can be present at birth (congenital) or develop later
in childhood.
Types of Pediatric Hand Deformities
Some common types of pediatric hand deformities include:
- Syndactyly: This condition involves the fusion of two or more fingers or toes.
- Polydactyly: This condition involves the presence of extra fingers or toes.
- Clubhand: This is a complex deformity affecting the bones, muscles, and joints of the forearm and hand.
- Macrodactyly: This condition involves the overgrowth of one or more fingers or toes.
- Microdactyly: This condition involves the underdevelopment of one or more fingers or toes.
- Dupuytren's contracture: While more common in adults, this condition can sometimes occur in children, causing the fingers to become permanently bent.
Causes of Pediatric Hand Deformities
The causes of pediatric hand deformities can vary widely:
- Genetic factors: Many hand deformities are caused by genetic conditions or syndromes.
- Prenatal factors: Exposure to certain medications or infections during pregnancy can increase the risk of hand deformities.
- Trauma: Injuries during birth or later in childhood can cause hand deformities.
Treatment of Pediatric Hand Deformities
The treatment for pediatric hand deformities will depend on the specific condition and its
severity. Treatment options may include:
- Observation: Some minor deformities may not require any treatment and may improve on their own.
- Surgery: Surgery is often necessary to correct more severe deformities. This may involve:
- Release of fused fingers: For conditions like syndactyly.
- Removal of extra fingers or toes: For conditions like polydactyly.
- Bone lengthening or shortening procedures: For conditions like macrodactyly or microdactyly.
- Tendon transfers: To improve hand function.
- Therapy: Occupational therapy can help children learn to use their hands effectively despite the deformity.
Prevention of Pediatric Hand Deformities
While not all hand deformities can be prevented, some steps can be taken to reduce the risk:
- Prenatal care: Regular prenatal checkups and maintaining a healthy lifestyle during pregnancy can help reduce the risk of certain birth defects.
When to See a Doctor
If you notice any abnormalities in your child's hands or fingers, it is important to consult with
a doctor. Early diagnosis and treatment can often lead to the best possible outcomes.
How Dr. Chaudhari at Houston Hand and Foot Orthopedics Can Help
Dr. Chaudhari at Houston Hand and Foot Orthopedics specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of
pediatric hand deformities. He has extensive experience in performing a wide range of surgical and non-surgical
procedures to correct hand deformities in children. Dr. Chaudhari provides pediatric hand deformity treatment in
Pearland, Pasadena, Clear Lake, and Friendswood.
Contact Houston Hand and Foot Orthopedics Today
If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment with Dr. Chaudhari, please
contact Houston Hand and Foot Orthopedics today.
- Phone: (281) 456-4412 or (832) 583-2273 (BONE)
- Fax: (281) 205-8356
- Email: info@handfootortho.com
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Comprehensive Care:
We offer a complete range of orthopedic services for the hands and feet, including:
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Trigger finger
- Arthritis
- Fractures (including distal radius fractures)
- Sports injuries
- Bunions
- Hammertoes
- And more
Convenient Pasadena Location & Hours
Our Pasadena office is located at 5044 Crenshaw Road Suite 100, Pasadena, TX 77505and easily accessible to residents of both Pasadena and Clear Lake.
Pasadena Office Hours:
Tuesday: 8:00 AM - 11:30 AM
We are closed on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.
Schedule an Appointment Today!
If you are experiencing pain or discomfort in your hands or feet, please call us at (281) 456-4412 or (832) 583-2273 (BONE) to schedule an appointment at our Pasadena location. We look forward to helping you get back to the activities you love!