2 3 Toe Cutaneous Syndactyly C0432040
A birth condition where the skin of the second and third toes is joined together. It may occur on its own or with other conditions. Surgery can separate the toes if needed.
Key facts at a glance
- ICD-10
- M79.9
- ICD-11
- FA00.0
- Body system
- musculoskeletal
- Severity
- mild
- Chronic
- true
Signs and symptoms
Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.
Webbed second and third toes
(musculoskeletal)Presence of cutaneous (skin) webbing connecting the second and third toes, typically noted at birth.
Frequency: 100% of patients
Limited toe mobility
(musculoskeletal)Reduced ability to independently move or separate the second and third toes due to the skin connection.
Frequency: 90-95% of patients
Foot asymmetry
(musculoskeletal)Visible asymmetry of the affected foot compared to typical foot structure or the unaffected foot.
Frequency: 85-90% of patients
Footwear fitting difficulties
(musculoskeletal)Challenge finding properly fitting shoes due to the abnormal toe structure and width of the foot.
Frequency: 60-70% of patients
Interdigital skin irritation
(dermatologic)Redness, itching, or irritation in the skin fold between the fused toes.
Frequency: 40-50% of patients
Gait abnormality
(musculoskeletal)Altered walking pattern or difficulty with balance due to the toe fusion affecting foot mechanics.
Frequency: 15-25% of patients
Callus formation
(dermatologic)Thickened skin developing on the fused toes from repeated friction or pressure.
Frequency: 10-20% of patients
Pain with pressure
(musculoskeletal)Discomfort or pain experienced when pressure is applied to the fused toes or during physical activities.
Frequency: 5-10% of patients
Functional impairment
(musculoskeletal)Significant limitation in activities such as running, jumping, or sports due to toe fusion.
Frequency: 5-10% of patients
Diagnosis and tests
How this condition is diagnosed and what test results mean.
Initial screening tests
Standard diagnostic workup
Positive result: Diagnostic criteria should be determined by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Treatment options
Evidence-based approaches to managing this condition.
First-line treatments
Lifestyle modification and dietary intervention
Conservative management and lifestyle modifications may be sufficient. Monitor symptoms.
Toe Web Release
Surgical separation of soft tissue webbing between 2nd and 3rd toes to improve toe alignment and prevent footwear friction. Performed when syndactyly causes discomfort or shoe fitting difficulties.
Foot Development Surveillance
Periodic pediatric podiatry review of toe alignment, gait patterns, and footwear fit to assess functional impact. Documents progression and need for intervention.
Additional treatment options
Footwear Selection Guidance
Professional fitting recommendations for wide-toe box shoes that accommodate toe anatomy and prevent skin irritation. Includes guidance on socks and custom orthotics.
lifestyleGait Training and Toe Exercises
Physical therapy focusing on proper walking mechanics, toe spreading exercises, and balance activities. Helps maintain flexibility and prevents compensatory movement patterns.
physical_therapyFoot Care Education
Comprehensive education on skin care between fused toes, moisture management, and early sign detection for corns or irritation. Includes proper hygiene techniques.
complementaryWhen to seek medical help
Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.
Schedule an appointment soon
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about this topic.
What is 2 3 Toe Cutaneous Syndactyly C0432040?
Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]
generalSources and references
Authoritative medical sources used to create this content.
Bauer MW, Murthy V, Tse RW. Syndactyly: Genetics, Embryology, and Clinical Management. J Hand Surg Am. 2022;47(10):1023-1034.
American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Practice Parameter for the Treatment of Congenital Hand Anomalies. 2021.
Goldfarb CA, Wall L, Manske PR. Congenital Hand Anomalies: A Review of the Literature. J Pediatr Orthop. 2020;40(5):e389-e395.
Nakamura K, Ohlsen L, Matsuo K, et al. Long-term Outcomes of Surgical Correction for Cutaneous Syndactyly: A Prospective Cohort Study. J Bone Joint Surg Am. 2019;101(12):1084-1094.
Mundinger GS, Steinbacher DM, Tong T, et al. Functional Outcomes Following Syndactyly Release: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Hand (N Y). 2021;16(4):447-457.
Nixon MS, Cahn MG. Operative Techniques in Pediatric Orthopaedics. 2nd ed. Philadelphia: Wolters Kluwer; 2020:Chapter 15 - Syndactyly.
International Consortium on Congenital Limb Malformations. Consensus Guidelines for Classification and Treatment of Syndactyly. 2019.
Wollstein R, Meara JG. Syndactyly. In:Neligan PC, ed. Plastic Surgery. 4th ed. Elsevier; 2022: Vol 6, Chapter 16.
Lee H, Bae J, Park J. Comparative Study of Surgical Techniques for Toe Syndactyly. Foot Ankle Int. 2018;39(8):936-943.
American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Position Statement on Management of Congenital Limb Deficiencies and Malformations. 2020.
Medication Comparisons
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Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 20, 2026. · Read our editorial policy