Congenital Limb Defects

A congenital limb difference is when an arm or leg doesn’t form normally as a baby grows in the uterus. The baby is born with the difference.

The exact cause of this type of difference is often unknown.

Some things may increase the chances of this health problem. These include:

• Conditions that affect the baby in the uterus as it grows. These include genetic abnormalities, growth restriction, and mechanical forces.

• Exposure by the birth parent to chemicals or viruses while pregnant

• Some types of medicines

• Exposure to tobacco smoke

Symptoms

A child with a congenital limb difference has an arm or leg that hasn’t formed normally. The most common of these differences are:

• No limb at all

• Part of the limb doesn’t separate, often seen in fingers or toes

• Duplication, often seen as extra fingers or toes

• The limb is much larger than the normal limb (overgrowth)

• The limb is much smaller than the normal limb (undergrowth)

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of a congenital limb difference is made at birth. It may be linked to other bone conditions or syndromes. Always talk with your child’s healthcare provider for a diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment will depend on your child’s symptoms, age, and general health. It will also depend on how bad the condition is.

The overall goal for treatment is to give your child a limb that works and looks right. Treatment goals can vary for each child. They may include:

• Helping your child grow and develop

• Helping your child feel a sense of independence

• Encouraging self-care

• Improving how the limb looks

There is no standard treatment for a congenital limb difference. Treatment choices may include:

• Artificial limbs (prosthetics)

• Splints or braces (orthotics)

• Surgery

• Rehabilitation, such as physical or occupational therapy