Surgical Treatment and Outcomes of Syndactyly: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Background: Different techniques are used to release simple and complex congenital syndactyly in order to create an adequate web space, and to separate the fingers to allow independent function. Methods: This article is a systematic review of the literature, aiming to evaluate the evidence for the different techniques and outcome measures utilised. Results: The studies consisted mainly of retrospective, non-controlled descriptive series and a few retrospective cohort studies. The level of evidence is predominantly poor. Conclusions: Although recommendations in favour of any particular surgical technique cannot be given based on evidence, a number of conclusions can be drawn out of the existing literature with regards to the design of the incisions for finger separation, use of pulp flaps and grafts.