Polydactyly is a deformity in which the hand has one or more extra fingers. This condition can occur in various forms, ranging from a small, poorly developed extra digit to a fully formed, functional extra finger or toe. Polydactyly is one of the most common congenital limb anomalies, and it can affect one or both hands and feet.

It can be inherited as a genetic trait or it can arise sporadically without any known family history. The extra digit may be composed of soft tissue alone, or it may contain bones, joints, and even tendons, making it a fully functional digit in some cases..

The extra finger can be removed surgically, when the child is between 1 and 2 years old, young enough that he won’t miss developmental milestones such as grasping (prehension), but late enough that he can tolerate anesthesia and surgery well. The timing and approach to surgery depend on the specific characteristics of the extra digit and the overall health of the child. Early intervention is often recommended to ensure optimal hand or foot function and to minimize any potential psychological impact.