title: The zig-zag deformity in pre-axial polydactyly. A new cause and its treatment.
abstract: Most cases of zig-zag deformity following treatment of pre-axial polydactyly have resulted from inadequate reconstruction of bifid bony elements. We report its development after simple suture ligature of the radial component of a bifid thumb in the form of a soft tissue tag at the level of the MP joint. Successful reconstruction has been achieved with the use of similar principles proposed for the more characteristic zig-zag deformity. Parents, paediatricians, and obstetricians should be warned that simple suture ligature of the soft tissue tag may allow the development of a zig-zag deformity and require further reconstruction.
authors.affiliation: Hand Treatment Center, Atlanta, Georgia, USA.
authors.forename: G M
authors.initials: GM
authors.lastname: Lourie
authors.forename: B L
authors.initials: BL
authors.lastname: Costas
authors.forename: L G
authors.initials: LG
authors.lastname: Bayne
mesh_terms: D005260:Female; D006227:Hand Deformities, Acquired / Q000209:etiology / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D008297:Male; D010027:Osteotomy / Q000379:methods; D017689:Polydactyly / Q000601:surgery*; D011183:Postoperative Complications / Q000209:etiology / Q000601:surgery*; D013536:Suture Techniques / Q000009:adverse effects