Overview

Symbrachydactyly is a rare congenital hand anomaly where a child is born with abnormally short fingers or missing fingers on one hand. It occurs sporadically and is not typically inherited. In Korea, this condition is managed with a combination of early diagnosis, surgical interventions, and customized rehabilitation therapies to enhance hand function and appearance.

What is Symbrachydactyly?

Symbrachydactyly is a developmental condition that occurs during early fetal growth. It usually affects one hand, leading to underdeveloped or missing fingers, shortened bones, webbing, or small, non-functional digit nubs. The thumb is often less affected or completely formed. Unlike some other congenital hand conditions, symbrachydactyly is usually not associated with genetic syndromes.

Symptoms

• Shortened or missing fingers
• Webbed or fused fingers (syndactyly may coexist)
• Small finger nubs with or without nails
• Limited hand function depending on severity
• Underdeveloped palm or hand muscles
• Normal sensation in the affected hand

Causes

• Unknown in most cases (sporadic mutation or developmental disruption)
• Believed to occur due to vascular disruption during limb formation in the first 6–8 weeks of gestation
• Not typically associated with family history or inherited genetic mutations

Risk Factors

• Most cases occur without any identifiable risk factor
• Not linked to maternal illness or environmental exposure in most instances
• No known prevention due to spontaneous origin

Complications

• Functional limitations in hand movement or grip strength
• Challenges in performing daily activities depending on severity
• Cosmetic concerns leading to social or emotional impacts
• Possibility of accompanying limb anomalies in rare cases

Prevention

• No known prevention method, as it is usually spontaneous and non-hereditary
• Prenatal detection is limited but may be seen on detailed ultrasound after 18–20 weeks
• Early postnatal diagnosis allows for timely intervention

Treatment Options in Korea

1. Diagnosis

• Physical examination after birth
• X-rays and 3D imaging to assess bone structure
• Evaluation by pediatric orthopedic or plastic surgeons

2. Surgical Treatments

• Digit reconstruction: Using bone and tissue grafts from other parts of the body
• Pollicization: Creating a thumb from an index finger if thumb is absent
• Web space deepening or release: To improve mobility between fingers
• Prosthetics: Custom hand or finger prostheses may be offered if surgery is not feasible

3. Non-Surgical Management

• Occupational therapy: To improve fine motor skills, grip strength, and adaptability
• Physical therapy: To maintain range of motion and muscle development
• Assistive devices: Tools for school or home use adapted for hand function

4. Specialized Care Centers in Korea

• Major hospitals like Severance Hospital, Samsung Medical Center, and Seoul National University Hospital offer pediatric hand clinics
• Integrated care with surgeons, therapists, prosthetists, and child psychologists
• Surgical outcomes in Korea are highly advanced, focusing on both functional improvement and aesthetic restoration

5. Psychosocial Support

• Counseling for children and parents to cope with body image and social challenges
• Peer group or support networks facilitated by medical centers or NGOs