Syndactyly reconstruction by a modified Cronin method

In 11 patients (1 to 28 years of age) having elective surgical release of congenital or burn syndactyly in 1982-1983, we used the modified Cronin method of web reconstruction with double opposing, inverted V-shaped flaps and full-thickness skin grafts. Postoperatively, the hands were splinted for three weeks, at which time we changed the dressing, with the patient under anesthesia. The hands were then immobilized for an additional three weeks. At the last clinic visit (13 to 20 months postoperatively) the hands were evaluated for adequacy of web space reconstruction, cosmesis, and postoperative complications. There was one partial loss of a full-thickness skin graft, which required regrafting when the patient prematurely removed his dressing. One proximal interphalangeal joint contracture required splinting. The web space reconstruction was judged adequate in all hands, and all patients and parents were pleased with the cosmetic results. This method of reconstruction gives good results and its web space reconstruction is technically easier than other methods.