Congenital hand surgery

Congenital hand malformations are developmental abnormalities that occur during pregnancy.

They can take different forms, including:

• fingers fused together (syndactyly),
• the presence of an extra finger,
• duplication of the thumb,
• a thumb that is too small or absent,
• a partially formed or incomplete hand.

These differences vary in complexity and may affect one or both hands.

Depending on the type of malformation, grasping and handling objects may be limited.

This can affect:

• the learning of fine motor skills,
• motor development,
• daily independence,
• the child’s personal and social development.

Appropriate care helps reduce these limitations and supports the child’s overall development.

Congenital hand surgery is generally performed during the first years of life.

This timing is preferred in order to:

• allow the child to grow up with a functional hand,
• support harmonious motor development,
• reduce compensatory movements and long-term difficulties.

Each child receives a personalized assessment. Care is tailored to their age, the type of malformation, and their functional needs.

It may include:

• specialized follow-up before surgery,
• surgery performed by an expert hand surgery team,
• close support for parents throughout the entire care pathway.

After surgery, gentle and progressive rehabilitation is introduced. Adapted to the child’s age, it aims to:

• improve mobility and strength,
• encourage spontaneous use of the hand,
• optimize the functional results of the procedure.

This rehabilitation plays an essential role in the success of the treatment and in the child’s daily comfort.