J Korean Orthop Assoc.  2023 Feb;58(1):1-8. 10.4055/jkoa.2023.58.1.1 .

Polydactyly of the Thumb: Classification and Treatment

• Shin YH
• Kim JK

• KMID: 2539495
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.4055/jkoa.2023.58.1.1

Abstract

Preaxial polydactyly of the hand is one of the most common congenital hand anomalies. Several classification systems have been developed to classify these complex anomalies, of which the Wassel-Flat classification, based on the anatomical level of skeletal duplication, is the most widely used. Recently, a modified Wassel classification system was proposed to describe the type VII deformities and define the hypoplastic types more clearly. Surgical treatments for preaxial polydactyly of the hand are generally performed between 10 months and 2 years after birth. The purpose of operation is to construct a functional and cosmetically acceptable thumb. Since the clinical outcomes after remaining the radial side digit are poor, surgeons should try to remain the ulnar side digit as much as possible for the selection of the remaining digit. According to the type of preaxial polydactyly, various surgical procedures could be applied. This review presents the several classification systems for preaxial polydactyly of the hand and describes the applied surgical procedures according to the modified Wassel classification.

Keyword

polydactyly; thumb