Congenital Hand Deformities
Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. David T. Morwood treats children with congenital hand deformities in Monterey, CA. Dr. Morwood is an experienced plastic surgeon who specializes in pediatric and reconstructive hand surgery and is dedicated to improving the functionality and appearance of hand deformities in young patients. Under Dr. Morwood’s care, you can be assured your child will receive comprehensive and compassionate treatment and a successful result.
Congenital Hand Deformities and Corrective Surgical Techniques
Dr. Morwood treats a variety of congenital hand deformities that can affect a child’s ability to perform everyday activities and impact their self-esteem. The doctor employs various advanced reconstructive and plastic surgery techniques for a customized approach that addresses both functional impairment and aesthetic concerns. Common congenital hand deformities and corrective surgical techniques include:
Syndactyly– where two or more fingers are fused. This condition not only affects the appearance but can also limit the functionality of the hand. During corrective surgery, careful attention is given to the reconstruction of the skin and any affected bones.
Polydactyly– is characterized by the presence of an extra finger or thumb, which can complicate tasks and alter hand function. Surgery to correct polydactyly often involves bone, nerve, and tissue work to ensure a functional and cosmetic restoration after removing extra digits.
Clinodactyly– involving an abnormal curvature of the finger, often making certain movements and grips challenging. Correcting this condition may involve cutting the bone and realigning it to improve both function and appearance.
Benefits of Early Surgical Intervention
The optimal age for surgery to correct congenital deformities varies depending on the specific condition and the severity of the deformity. However, surgery at a young age, often within the first few years of life, is often recommended for several reasons:
Improved Healing During Early Development– Young children typically have better healing capabilities and are less likely to develop significant scar tissue compared to adults. Early intervention can help ensure that the corrected deformity integrates more naturally with the child’s growth and development.
Improved Motor Skill Development– Performing surgery early can significantly improve the function of the affected area, which is crucial as children begin to explore and interact with their environment. For example, surgeries for hand deformities are often performed as early as 6 months to 2 years of age, especially if the deformity interferes with function or will likely cause more significant issues as the child grows.
Psychological and Social Benefits- Addressing visible deformities early can help prevent potential psychological and social challenges related to their appearance. Children are less aware and concerned about surgical procedures and recoveries at a very young age, which can ease the overall process for both the child and their family.
Consultation with Dr. Morwood
A consultation for pediatric hand surgery with Dr. Morwood is the first step. The doctor conducts a thorough examination and outlines the most effective surgical approach. The prospect of a child undergoing surgery is understandably a situation that would cause their family anxiety, to alleviate this, Dr. Morwood emphasizes the importance of education and preparation. Families will receive comprehensive information about the proposed surgery, including details about preparation, the surgical procedure, and what to expect during the recovery process.
Why Choose Dr. Morwood for Your Child’s Hand Surgery?
Dr. David Morwood is a board-certified plastic surgeon with fellowships in microsurgery and hand surgery and has worked extensively with children. The doctor has always had a passion for utilizing his surgical skills to help children and has led countless humanitarian missions to treat underprivileged children born with congenital birth defects.
Learn More Information
Request an evaluation to learn more about surgical procedures for your child’s congenital hand deformity. We are here to guide you through each step of the process, from consultation to recovery, ensuring that your child receives the highest standard of care and achieves optimal outcomes. To schedule a consultation for your child, contact us today at David T. Morwood, MD in Monterey, CA.
