Complications of Suture Ligation Ablation for Ulnar Polydactyly: A Report of Two Cases

Abstract

We report two cases resulting in complications following suture ligation treatment for ulnar polydactyly. One case consisted of bilateral, retained gangrene and cellulitis, and a second case consisted of a residual, sensitive skin tag. The case involving gangrene and cellulitis developed after an unsuccessful suture ligation of bilateral pedunculated duplicated digits. The second case developed after suture ligature ablation of a rudimentary digit in the nursery but presented 3 years later with a residual symptomatic nubbin. Both cases were treated by surgical excision of the residual tissue in the operating room. The first case illustrates a morbid complication following unsuccessful ligature while the second case demonstrates the inevitable suboptimal long-term outcome associated with what has traditionally been considered “successful” suture ligation.