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Treatment for congenital conditions affecting the hand and upper limbs focuses on correcting deformities present from birth. These anomalies, such as webbed fingers (syndactyly) or extra fingers (polydactyly), can affect the child’s ability to perform everyday activities. Surgical procedures are carefully tailored to improve both the function and appearance of the hand, helping the child achieve better mobility and confidence as they grow.
Conditions it Helps With
Paediatric upper limb and hand congenital anomalies services address a wide range of birth defects, including:
Syndactyly (Webbed Fingers): This condition occurs when two or more fingers are fused together, limiting movement and functionality.
Polydactyly (Extra Fingers): In this condition, children are born with extra fingers, which may hinder hand movement or cause discomfort.
Radial Club Hand: A condition where the radius bone in the forearm is underdeveloped or missing, leading to curvature of the hand and forearm.
Why is it Performed?
Congenital anomaly surgeries are performed to:
Enhance Hand Functionality: Surgery can improve the child’s ability to grip, grasp, and manipulate objects, allowing for more normal hand movement.
Improve Appearance: In addition to functional benefits, surgery also enhances the aesthetic appearance of the hand, which can boost the child’s confidence and social interactions.
Prevent Future Complications: Early correction of congenital anomalies reduces the risk of long-term complications, such as joint deformities or muscle imbalances, that could worsen as the child grows.
Before Surgery or Treatment
Thorough Medical Evaluation: The child will undergo a comprehensive assessment, including imaging tests (X-rays or MRIs) to understand the extent of the deformity and to create a customised surgical plan.
Parental Guidance and Support: Parents will receive detailed instructions on how to prepare their child for surgery, including fasting requirements and information about hospital stay and recovery expectations.
Multidisciplinary Approach: A team of specialists, including paediatric surgeons, orthopaedic experts, and physical therapists, will work together to plan the most appropriate treatment for the child’s specific condition.
After Surgery or Treatment
Postoperative Monitoring: After surgery, the child’s hand may be placed in a splint or cast to protect the surgical area and ensure proper healing. Regular follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor the recovery process.
Physical and Occupational Therapy: Rehabilitation is essential after surgery to help the child regain hand strength and mobility. Therapy exercises will be tailored to the child’s age and specific condition.
Ongoing Care and Assessments: The medical team will continue to assess the child’s progress over time, adjusting therapy and care as needed to ensure the best functional outcomes. In some cases, additional surgeries may be necessary as the child grows.
Benefits and Risk Factors
Benefits
Restored Hand Functionality: Corrective surgery significantly improves the child’s ability to use their hand for everyday tasks, enhancing independence.
Improved Appearance: Surgically correcting deformities improves the aesthetic appearance of the hand, helping the child feel more confident in social situations.
Prevention of Long-term Complications: Early intervention reduces the risk of future complications, such as joint stiffness or muscle weakness, that could affect the child’s long-term hand function.
Risk Factors
Surgical Risks: As with any surgery, there is a risk of complications such as infection, bleeding, or adverse reactions to anaesthesia.
Delayed Healing or Scarring: Some children may experience delayed healing or significant scarring, which could affect the hand’s appearance or function.
Need for Additional Surgeries: In cases of more severe anomalies, the child may require multiple surgeries over time to achieve optimal outcomes, particularly as they grow.
Rehabilitation Challenges: Long-term therapy may be needed to fully restore hand function, which can be a time-consuming and challenging process for both the child and their family
Consult our hand and limb surgeons if you need Paediatric Upper Limb & Hand Anomalies Surgery in India
