What is a duplicated small (pinky) finger?
A duplicated small finger is an extra small finger on one or both hands. The extra finger may be connected to the small finger by a loose skin stalk or a bony connection.
Autoamputation
If your child’s extra small finger is connected by a loose stalk of skin, the finger can twist on itself, causing a lack of blood supply. This may make the extra small finger turn red or purple in colour.
If the finger remains twisted for a long period of time, it may fall off naturally on its own. This is called autoamputation. You do not need to do anything urgently if you notice your child’s extra finger autoamputating. Seeking care at an urgent care clinic or emergency department is not required.
What to expect
Autoamputation of an extra small finger is not dangerous to your child.The finger will appear red and swollen; then it may turn a dusky purple or blue colour as the blood supply is reduced. You may put a mitten over the affected hand for extra protection while it is autoamputating, as many parents get worried about the extra finger getting caught on clothing. The finger will fall off on its own.
There may be a small amount of blood when the extra finger comes off. It is recommended you apply some light pressure to the area with a cotton pad to stop any bleeding. Do not cover the area with bandages if your child is an infant, as bandages can be a choking hazard.
Is this painful or uncomfortable for my child?
Autoamputation can be uncomfortable for your child. You can provide comfort measures at home, such as cuddling and feeding if your child is an infant. You can also contact a pharmacist or your child’s primary health-care provider regarding a safe dose of acetaminophen to provide if you think your child is having pain during this process.
Things to look out for
Monitor your child’s finger for signs of infection. These include:
- spreading redness and swelling from the extra finger into the neighbouring finger
- pus
- drainage
- fever
If you are concerned about infection, please follow up with your child’s primary health-care provider.
After autoamputation
When the extra small finger eventually falls off on its own, it generally is not bothersome for your child. There may be a remaining bump on the main small finger. The bump can be removed by a plastic surgeon once the area has completely healed if it is bothersome to your child. If it is not bothersome, the bump can be left alone.