Clinodactyly in Children

How is clinodactyly diagnosed?

Clinodactyly is diagnosed by examination. Often, the doctor will order X-rays to look at the bones of the fingers/toes.

How is clinodactyly treated?

Most children with clinodactyly don't need surgery to fix the condition. Surgery is usually only done if your child can't use their hands normally.

If surgery is recommended:

• The surgery will be done in the operating room under general anesthesia (the child is put to sleep).
• Small cuts are made in the fingers to get to the bone.
• A cut in the bone is made to straighten the bones of the fingers.
• The fingers are put in the correct position. Small pins, wires or screws are used to hold the bone straight.
• After surgery, the hand will be bandaged and most likely put in a cast.
• Once the bandages are taken off, your surgeon might suggest working with a hand therapist.

Why choose Children's Colorado for your child's clinodactyly?

Our Hand and Upper Extremity Program team at Children's Colorado provides a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach to the care of your child. This means you have access to leading specialists from multiple departments who work together to treat your child.

Your child's care team includes pediatric experts from orthopedic surgery, physical medicine, rehabilitation, occupational therapy and nursing.