Webplasty using an external fixator for complex syndactyly caused by Apert syndrome

Abstract

Background

Webplasty can be conducted for complex syndactyly caused by Apert syndrome (also referred to as Apert hand) by extending the soft tissue in the lateral direction using an external fixator. This study aimed to verify the usefulness of webplasty without skin grafting.

Methods

Webplasty with lateral extension was conducted at a single institution from 2015 to 2023. The patients were four children with Apert hand aged 1–3 years. A custom-made small external fixator was used for all of the soft tissue extension.

Results

Webplasty without skin grafting was completed by the time all five patients were 5–6 years of age.

Conclusion

Webplasty without skin grafting was possible with lateral extension of the soft tissue using a simple external fixator.