Polydactyly "Extra Digit" - Scott Nobis Explanation

Tyler was born with an extra thumb on his right hand (lucky guy!) It is termed Polydactyly. It occurs in one in one hundred thousand births. It is an autosomal recessive disorder that we have learned was likely passed down from Scott's grandmother on his Dad's side who had an extra fingernail on the side of her thumb which was the start of a new thumb. It will need to be surgically removed before he is one to one and half years old before he uses his pincher grasp with his thumb. Depending upon where it joins in with his normal thumb, it will likely involve reconstructing the supporting ligament of his normal thumb where it attaches in as well as detatching the two tendons that go to it as well as one muscle that goes from his thumb pad out to his thumb. The risks of the surgery are that he may have a stiff thumb, or an unstable thumb joint.

We have had many good natured jokes which we appreciate.....He can count to eleven with just his fingers, he can give you three thumbs up, he will be able to throw a great curve ball, he can hold his pencil between his two thumbs, any other good ones feel free to let us know. Scott feels this may have been why he decided to be a hand therapist in life so he can help his child deal with this issue. After all, it is his fault! Thanks a lot Great Grandma Nobis.