Radial polydactyly: A modification of wassel/flatt classification system and clinical series

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose is to propose a modification of Wassel/Flatt classification system for radial polydactyly based on radiological findings and previously described classification systems. Materials and Methods: Thirty-five patients with radial polydactyly were included in the study. There were 47 supernumerary fingers. Patients' clinical and radiological data were evaluated retrospectively. Family history, sex, age, unilateral or bilateral placement, the origin of radial polydactyly, coexisting anomalies, and syndromes of each patient were documented. We classified cases into 13 different subgroups, according to X-rays and clinical findings. Results: One supernumerary digit was rudimentary Type, 2 were hypoplastic type, one was Wassel Type I, 3 were Wassel Type II, and 5 were Wassel Type III, 12 were Wassel Type IV, 5 were Wassel Type V, 7 were Wassel Type VI, 9 were Wassel Type VII, one was symphalangism, one was complicated type. Conclusion: We think it is beneficial to add complicated type (tetraplication, triplication) symphalangism, rudimentary and hypoplastic malformations together as a single comprehensive classification system to better define diagnosis and treatment plans.

Keywords

• polydactyly
• radial polydactyly
• rudimentary
• tetraplication
• wassel classification