Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) Practice Exam

Syndactyly refers to which of the following conditions?

1. Cleft palate

2. Webbed fingers

3. Fused tarsals

4. Torn ligaments

The correct answer is: Webbed fingers

Syndactyly specifically describes the condition in which two or more fingers or toes are fused together, resulting in webbed fingers or toes. This congenital condition occurs when the tissue between the digits fails to separate completely during fetal development. It can vary in severity, from simple webbing of the skin to more complex forms where bones and joints may also be involved. The other options do not align with the definition of syndactyly; for example, a cleft palate pertains to a split in the roof of the mouth, fused tarsals involve the bones of the foot, and torn ligaments relate to injuries in connective tissue, none of which involve the fusion of digits. Therefore, webbed fingers accurately represents the condition known as syndactyly.