Clinodactyly

Clinodactyly is defined as a congenital curvature of a digit distal to the metacarpal phalangeal joint in the coronal plane. Curvatures with an angular deviation of fewer than 10 degrees can be seen as a normal physiologic variant but clinodactyly is defined when the coronal angulation of the affected digit is greater than 10 degrees.

This abnormal shape leads to asymmetric longitudinal growth in a direction deviated from the normal longitudinal axis of the finger resulting in the visible curvature of the digit.

It is most prevalent at the middle or distal phalanx level of the little finger where the deviation tends to be in a radial direction.

Generally, surgical treatment is reserved for progressive deformity or occasionally for cosmetic reasons.

Reference

1. Goldfarb CA, Wall LB. Osteotomy for clinodactyly. J Hand Surg Am. 2015 Jun;40(6):1220-4.