Problems in polydactyly of the foot.

1. Polydactyly should be treated early. 2. Adequate bone and soft tissue should be removed. 3. One arm of the Y should be removed surgically in the incompletely duplicated Y metatarsal. 4. The incompletely duplicated Y metatarsal shaved to form a single shaft may at first be bowed, but will remodel to form normal or nearly normal bone. 5. The wide metatarsal head associated with a duplicated phalanx should be narrowed surgically to avoid the development of a painful bunion. 6. Short block-like metatarsals remain abnormal. 7. Polydactyly associated with a short first metatarsal and congenital hallux varus carriers a poorer treatment prognosis and may require continuing treatment. 8. Postoperative casting and taping should be utilized to prevent angular deformities and encourage normal forefoot contour.