Reconstruction of Syndactyly and Polysyndactyly of the Toes With a Dorsal Pentagonal Island Flap: A Technique That Allows Primary Skin Closure Without the Use of Skin Grafting

Abstract

Syndactyly and polysyndactyly are common congenital conditions involving the foot, and surgery to reconstruct the toes may be indicated for cosmetic, psychological, and practical reasons. A dorsal flap is traditionally used for web space reconstruction, with skin grafts for the bases of the toes. Skin grafting has associated morbidity and can result in pigmentation mismatch. Single-stage direct closure with a specially designed flap has advantages including a reduction of morbidity from avoidance of skin grafting and shorter surgery. Four patients (6 feet) were included in the study. There were 2 cases of syndactyly and 2 cases of polysyndactyly. Bilateral involvement occurred in 2 patients. The average age was 18 months at time of first surgery. Direct closure was achieved with a dorsal pentagonal island flap with dorsal and plantar triangular flaps. The average duration of follow-up was 19.8 months. At final follow-up, all patients had acceptable web depth and pulp contour. The distance between the proximal interphalangeal joints of adjacent toes and the web slope of the reconstructed web space were acceptable. Complications included partial synechiae, cellulitis, and keloid formation. The dorsal pentagonal island flap is an acceptable technique in providing another means for single-stage reconstruction of the web space in syndactyly and polysyndactyly. Good functional and cosmetic outcomes can be expected. However, the potential complication of keloid formation can affect cosmesis and overall outcome, and must be understood by patients and parents.