Polydactyle Case Essay Example for Free

Polydactyle Case Essay Polydactyle is a genetic disorder that is caused by a gene on chromosome seven. Polydactyle is a condition were an individual has more than five digits per hand. Most cases are isolated and not related to any other disorder but some are related to others. The errors occur during fetal development and they are caused by on several mutations on a gene that is known as chromosome seven. Polydactlyle is Autosomal dominant meaning that an offspring can get this disease by having it passed down from just one parent. During normal embryonic development while the infant is still in the womb the hand of the infant will most likely form a shape of a paddle. Following six to seven weeks later the paddle hand will split into digits as we know as fingers also resulting in more toes than normal, more fingers than normal extra digit on hand and extra digit on foot. The separation process is excessive while creating the extra â€Å"segment†. Polydactyle is also just one of those genetic defects that underlays hereditary from a parent. Polydactyle is often found more usually with African Americans to get it instead of other ethnic backgrounds. Polydactyly occurs by its self by isolated conditions or in conjunction with other symptoms as one aspect of a multi-symptom diseases. There are several forms of isolated and several forms of Polydactyly; each of these, where the genetics is understood, is caused by an autosomal dominant gene. This means that since the gene is autosomal (not sex-linked), males and females are equally likely to inherit the trait. This also means that since the gene is dominant, children who have only one parent with the trait have a 50% chance of inheriting it. However, people in the same family carrying the same gene can have different degrees of Polydactyly. There are a number of treatments that are used for the disorder Polydactyl but many families tend to go one way with the disorder. Most families contact a Orthopedic Surgeons or a Plastic Surgeon. This specialist removes there childs extra digit when they are 1 to 2 years of age. But Polydactyly  varies in complexity. A minor procedure may correct small extra digits or those with a narrow base. However, when the base is broad or if the extra digit is rooted deeply in the hand, reconstructive surgery may be the best option when the child is old enough to safely undergo an elective procedure. Operating on the bone, joint, ligaments or tendons may be necessary to create the most functional hand possible for the child so there is not a lot of pain.