Childen's Hospital Boston
International Visitorsdotted lineRequest Appointmentdotted lineDirections
 advanced search
About Us Find a Specialist Locations Careers Press Room Giving To
Clinical Services For Patients & Families For Health Professionals Research
My Child Has
or find by letter:  A-F  G-L  M-R  S-Z
My Child Has...
 X
FlowerClinodactyly
Programs that treat this condition
 Hand and Upper Extremity Program    Hand Clinic  
What is clinodactyly?
The term clinodactyly is used to describe a bending or curvature deformity of the finger which occurs in the plane of the hand.
What causes clinodactyly?
Clinodactyly is typically caused by abnormal growth and development of the small bones of the finger (the phalanges). In many cases, there may be abnormal shape or orientation of the growth plate. Rather than grow perpendicular to the axis of the finger, therefore, these bones may deviate in their direction of growth, resulting in trapezoidal or triangular shaped bones (the so-calleddelta phalanx). This can cause a shift in the alignment of the finger joints as well.
How common is clinodactyly?
The exact incidence of this condition is unknown, in part because there is no precise definition of what is normal and abnormal. However, clinodactyly is estimated to be present in approximately 10% of the general population to varying degrees. It tends to be present more commonly in males and usually affects the small finger. Bilateral involvement is common. Clinodactyly can be an inherited condition and may present as a part of an associated syndrome. A significant percentage of patients with Down syndrome, for example, have clinodactyly.
How is clinodactyly diagnosed?
Clinodactyly is diagnosed by treating physicians after a thorough medical history and careful physical examination. X-rays are also used to confirm the diagnosis.
How is clinodactyly treated?
Mild finger curvature rarely causes pain or functional problems. For these reasons, surgery is not typically recommended for patients with mild curvature and no functional problems.

Because abnormalities in the growth plate often contribute to clinodactyly, it is important for affected children to be monitored throughout growth and checked for progressive changes. If there is rapidly worsening deformity, or if the curvature progresses to the point where it interferes with hand function, surgery may be recommended. Surgical procedures typically involve making a cut in the bone (an osteotomy), correcting the deformity, and stabilizing the finger until the bone and soft tissue are healed. While surgery is usually successful in correcting the curvature, there is a risk for recurrence and need for future surgery.

 X
Email this page
Printer Friendly
 X
Contact Us Site Map Privacy Accessibility Give Now