AST Surgical Technologist Practice Exam

Syndactyly refers to:

1. Shortened fingers

2. Missing fingers

3. Webbed fingers

4. Deformed fingers

The correct answer is: Webbed fingers

Syndactyly specifically refers to the condition where two or more fingers or toes are fused together, often resulting in a webbed appearance. This can affect either the fingers or the toes and is classified as a congenital condition, meaning it is present at birth. The merging of the digits can range from a mild connection of the skin to complete joining of the bones. The meaning of syndactyly highlights its distinct characteristic of webbing, which is why it accurately fits the definition provided in the question. Understanding this term is important in fields such as surgery and pediatric medicine, where treatments or surgical interventions may need to be addressed for corrections or functional improvements for those affected by this condition.