St. Louis Hospital Treats Rare Mirror Hand Syndrome
Surgeons at St. Louis Children's Hospital performed a rare reconstruction for a toddler born with eight fingers.
Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Children’s Health
On January 30, 2026, surgeons at St. Louis Children's Hospital completed a three-hour reconstructive procedure on an 18-month-old girl born with Mirror Hand Syndrome. The patient, who traveled from Turkey, was born with eight fingers on her left hand.
Why it matters
Mirror Hand Syndrome, also known as Ulnar Dimelia, is an exceptionally rare congenital condition that limits wrist and elbow motion. The surgery was performed to improve these functional limitations for the young patient.
The condition affects fewer than 100 people worldwide and is characterized by the absence of a radius bone. The patient required a three-hour reconstructive surgery to address the physical limitations caused by having eight fingers.
The players
St. Louis Children's Hospital
This facility is a leading pediatric medical center that provides specialized surgical care for rare congenital conditions.
Dr. Charles Goldfarb
He is a medical expert who led the surgical team during the reconstructive procedure for the patient.
The details
Dr. Charles Goldfarb led the surgical team that treated the child, who also lacked a radius bone. The team coordinated the procedure through remote consultations using phone and FaceTime before the family traveled from Turkey to Missouri.
Timeline
January 30, 2026: Surgeons completed the three-hour reconstructive surgery.
The Big Picture
This case highlights how the St. Louis Children's International Free Care Fund facilitates access to highly specialized surgery for international patients. It illustrates the role of philanthropic medical initiatives in bridging gaps for rare congenital treatments.
This procedure demonstrates the specialized surgical options available for rare congenital conditions that impact mobility. Families facing similar diagnoses can consult with pediatric specialists to evaluate potential reconstructive interventions.
The takeaway
Mirror Hand Syndrome requires highly specialized surgical planning to correct structural bone deficiencies. Early consultation and support services are critical for families managing rare congenital limb differences.
Further reading
For more information on pediatric medical procedures and patient support, visit the Children’s Health section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Investigatetv.
