Abstract

Clinodactyly is a rare congenital birth defect that can result in radial or ulnar deviation of the fingers. One form of clindactyl is delta phalanx. This condition does not cause loss of function unless the deviation is severe. Clinodactyly with delta phalanx can be distinguished by other soft tissue disorder with radiographs. However, in the case of early development MRI is indicated because the cartilaginous epiphysis has not ossified and therefore cannot be visualized by radiographs. In this case, a 19 month old patient presents with a left index finger deformity that was managed surgically. The most common form of early surgical intervention of the delta phalanx is physiolysis. This procedure is recommended for newborns and infants because more correction of angulation is needed with more growth of the phalanx. Therefore, early intervention is indicated in these cases.