Enhanced preoperative planning in congenital polydactyly: superior assessment of MCP/MTP joint angular deformity with 3D-FS-FSPGR MRI compared to conventional radiography

Conventional x-ray assessment in congenital polydactyly is limited in visualizing soft tissue and cartilage structures. The 3D-FS-FSPGR MRI sequence offers superior characterization of cartilaginous and soft tissue components, enabling more precise measurement of joint angular deformities. Its integration into the preoperative evaluation protocol demonstrates substantial clinical feasibility and tangible potential to optimize surgical site and reduce the incidence of postoperative deformities and functional impairment, thereby improving the long-term functional and aesthetic outcomes for these children.