Clinical outcome after percutaneous flexor tenotomy in forefoot surgery

Classical Surgical Alternatives for the Treatment of Lesser Toe Deformities

Lesser toe deformities are the second most common deformities around the foot and ankle. Early reports of procedures for lesser toe correction date back to the 1880s. Lesser toe deformities have a high variability of appearance. Thorough assessment of the joints involved in the deformity is necessary. Numerous techniques of soft tissue and osseous interventions are available and need to be included for individual correction. Osseous corrections are usually accompanied by soft tissue procedures. Kirschner-wire fixation is still an effective method of fixation, but internal fixation is probably the way to go for the future if cost-effectiveness can be improved.

Minimally Invasive Alternatives for the Treatment of Lesser Toe Deformities

Toe deformities are often correct with a simple proximal interphalangeal joint fusion whatever if the joint is mobile or rigid. Percutaneous technique allows a different approach of the deformity. Fusion is no more the only solution. This article shows the different procedure that can be done percutaneously. Like all technique, it needs a specific training.

Biomechanical Problems Related to Lesser Toes Dysfunction and Amputation

Should we care about the biomechanics of the foot or the full locomotor system? Anatomic changes are the main concerns of an orthopedic surgeon; however, the main objectives of treatment for lesser toe dysfunctions are to relieve the patient's symptoms to preserve or improve function. It is imperative to understand that the foot is part a three-dimensional biokinetic system that needs to function combined so that loads are harmoniously distributed throughout the body without harmful effects, especially for one of the most frequent voluntary neuromotor tasks in humans: walking.

Comparison of Lesser Toe Proximal Interphalangeal Joint Arthrodesis Versus Resection Arthroplasty: A Randomized Controlled Study

The goal of this study was to compare operative outcomes after lesser toe deformity correction with either proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint arthrodesis or PIP joint resection arthroplasty. A prospective randomized controlled trial was performed with 37 patients (48 toes) operated on with one of these two procedures. Evaluation of the numeric rating scale score, the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society score, osseous consolidation, and clinical outcome was performed preoperatively and at 6 weeks and 6 months postoperatively. Both study groups showed significant improvement at 6 months postoperatively. Although osseous consolidation was significantly higher for the arthrodesis group (P=.001), this difference did not affect clinical outcomes, and at 6 months postoperatively, pain on the numeric rating scale was 0 (range, 0-7) for the arthroplasty group and 0 (range, 0-5) for the arthrodesis group (P=.669). The American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society score was 83 (range, 39-95) and 80 (range, 59-95), respectively (P=.879). No difference was observed for signs of inflammation or axis correction. Even a direct comparison of toes with radiologically osseous fusion (n=16) with those without fusion (n=32) did not show any clinical differences. This randomized controlled study showed no clinical differences in outcome between PIP joint arthrodesis and PIP joint resection arthroplasty for correction of lesser toe deformities, with good to excellent outcomes for both groups. [Orthopedics. 2022;45(2):86-90.].

Percutaneous flexor digitorum brevis tenotomy: An anatomical study

INTRODUCTION

A percutaneous selective flexor digitorum brevis (FDB) tenotomy and a proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint arthrolysis may correct a lesser claw toe deformity keeping flexor digitorum longus (FDL) and active flexion. Our study aimed to verify if the procedure was effective and reliable and if it respects the surrounding soft tissues.

MATERIAL AND METHOD

Twelve cadaveric lateral toes were used. A dissection ensured the integrity of both digital nerves, FDL and flexor pulleys and assessed the section of both FDB slips and PIP arthrolysis.

RESULTS

A complete section of the two FDB slips was observed in 4 cases (33%). Arthrolysis was achieved in all cases. Surrounding soft tissues were found intact in all cases.

CONCLUSION

This procedure is effective regarding PIP arthrolysis, but a technical improvement is required to achieve a reliable section of both FDB slips. In the hands of an experienced surgeon, it has proven to be safe.

Impact of crossover second toe on the postoperative outcome of distal chevron osteotomy for moderate to severe hallux valgus

BACKGROUND

Crossover second toe is often presented in moderate to severe hallux valgus. However, its clinical impact on the postoperative outcome of hallux valgus is still unknown.

METHODS

Thirty-five patients who had moderate to severe hallux valgus with crossover second toe were matched with 35 controls who did not have crossover second toe, according to preoperative hallux valgus angle and first-second intermetatarsal angle. Radiological parameters, Foot Function Index (FFI), and Visual Analog Scale (VAS) were assessed as postoperative outcomes at 3, 6, and 12 months after surgery.

RESULTS

At 3 months, the FFI in the crossover second toe group was lower than in the control group (p=0.001), while other outcomes were similar. On the other hand, there were no significant differences between the groups at 6 and 12 months, in terms of radiological parameters, FFI, and VAS.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients who had moderate to severe hallux valgus with crossover second toe were at risk for slow functional recovery after surgical treatment in the short term, but, in the long-term, there was no difference in overall postoperative outcomes in patients with and without crossover second toe.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III, retrospective comparative study.

Minimally Invasive Advances: Lesser Toes Deformities

Minimally invasive procedures to treat lesser toes deformities are among the main surgeries of percutaneous techniques and considered mature techniques due to technical versatility and high correction potential, with low rates of complications. Although they seem technically simple procedures, there are important technical details for each of them to obtain a reliable correction. To achieve success in lesser toes percutaneous treatment, it is imperative to follow minimally invasive basic principles, especially postoperative care with specific bandages for unfixed osteotomies. Practical training is mandatory before starting the experience; the foot surgeon must learn theoretic and practical aspects to master this surgery.

The impact of associated tenotomies on the outcome of incomplete phalangeal osteotomies for lesser toe deformities

BACKGROUND

Partial or incomplete osteotomy (IO) of the phalanx is recently described in the literature. However, the clinical outcome and the rate of complications when applied to lesser toe deformities (LTD) have been never addressed. This study aims to find out if the association of tenotomies to incomplete or partial phalanx osteotomies has a significant impact on the clinical outcomes, the occurrence of complications, and the recovery time after surgery.

METHODS

A retrospective review of two cohorts of cases operated in our institution for hallux abductus valgus (HAV) and associated LTD from 2008 to 2014 was carried out. The surgical correction of both HAV and the associated LTD was always performed by minimally invasive techniques. The study included a total of 223 patients (723 IO in 556 toes). In 129 cases, the IO for LTD correction was performed without tenotomies, and in 94, the procedure was combined with flexor and/or extensor tenotomies. Patients were assessed with the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) questionnaire before surgery and at 6- and 12-month follow-up.

RESULTS

The mean preoperative AOFAS score before surgery was similar in both cohorts. At 12-month follow-up, the cohort without tenotomies showed better recovery (95.7 ± 2.8 versus 92.5 ± 6.8; p < 0.01). AOFAS scores decreased as the number of associated LTD increased (r = - 0.814; p < 0.001). Cases operated on by PO + tenotomy showed a high rate of complications such as delayed union of the osteotomy (p < 0.01), hypertrophic callus (p < 0.01), phalangeal fracture at the osteotomy site (p < 0.01), and lack of correction (p < 0.05). The overall occurrence of adverse events was 38.6% in cases operated by PO + tenotomy and 13.9% in cases receiving PO alone (p < 0.0001). Cases operated on without tenotomy showed a shorter time to complete recovery for daily life activities (37.4 ± 2.3 versus 43.0 ± 1.7 days; p < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

The performance of associated tenotomies to incomplete phalanx osteotomies provides worse clinical outcomes, higher complication rates, and longer recovery time as compared to similar forefoot surgeries without tenotomies.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

The study was based on retrospectively registered data starting on May 24, 2008.

Digital Deformity Assessment Prior to Percutaneous Flexor Tenotomy for Managing Diabetic Foot Ulcers on the Toes

The aim of this study is to evaluate the prevalence of digital deformities in patients with diabetes mellitus according to the McGlamry classification and relate the types of digital deformities with the history of digital ulcer. A cross-sectional study was performed in the diabetic foot unit between September 2016 and September 2017. All consecutive patients were classified by digital deformities according to the McGlamry classification (flexor stabilization, flexor substitution, and extensor substitution) using slow-motion videos. In all patients, the Foot Posture Index 6 was performed and previous toe ulceration, toe calluses, and nail dystrophy were evaluated. A total of 142 feet were evaluated, in which 29 (20.27%) feet did not show dynamic deformities, 65 (57.5%) were classified as flexor stabilization, 9 (8%) as flexor substitution, and 39 (34.5%) as extensor substitution. In total, 23% the feet with previous ulcer were classified as extensor substitution. A previous toe ulcer on the tip (p = .033; confidence interval [CI] 1.06 to 4.99; odds ratio [OR] 2.3), pronated foot according to the Foot Posture Index 6 (p = .048; 95% CI 0.9 to 8.9; OR 2.9), and callus on the tip (p = .002; 95% CI 1.47 to 6.41; OR 3.07) were associated with flexor stabilization deformities. Flexor stabilization, associated with the pronated foot, was the most prevalent dynamic deformity. Extensor substitution was present in approximately 40% of the patients and in 20% of the patients with previous ulcer, in whom flexor tenotomy could aggravate the digital deformity. An evaluation of dynamic deformities during gait should be included as a presurgical assessment to achieve successful surgical results.

The pathology and management of lesser toe deformities

Deformities of the lesser toes are common and can be associated with significant morbidity. These deformities are often multiple, and numerous treatment strategies have been described in the literature.The goal of surgical treatment is to improve symptoms by restoring alignment and function, and avoiding recurrence. In order to achieve this, it is essential for the treating surgeon to understand the normal anatomy and pathology of the various deformities.There is a paucity of prospective studies and randomised-controlled trials assessing the efficacy of specific interventions.We describe the normal anatomy and biomechanics of the lesser toes, and the pathology of commonly adult deformities. The rationale behind various treatment strategies is discussed and the results of published literature presented. Algorithms for the management of lesser toe deformities based on current literature are proposed. Cite this article: Malhotra K, Davda K, Singh D. The pathology and management of lesser toe deformities. EFORT Open Rev 2016;1:409-419. DOI: 10.1302/2058-5241.1.160017.

Percutaneous correction of second toe proximal deformity: Proximal interphalangeal release, flexor digitorum brevis tenotomy and proximal phalanx osteotomy

We report the results of a percutaneous technique to correct a proximal plantar flexion deformity of the second toe that combines several procedures: tenotomy of the Flexor Digitorum Brevis, plantar capsulotomy for release of the proximal interphalangeal joint and proximal phalangeal osteotomy. The goal of these procedures is to improve anatomical correction and preserve articular range of motion. From 2009 to 2011, 54 patients, mean age 64.4 years old (43-81) underwent surgery for a proximal deformity of the second toe. Associated tenotomy of the extensor digitorum longus and brevis was performed in the presence of an extension deformity of the metatarsophalangeal joint (24 cases). After a mean follow-up of 30.7 ± 8.9 months, the rate of satisfaction and morphological correction was high (89.5% in both cases), as well as the number of flexible toes (88%). Active plantar flexion was preserved in 86% of the cases. This seems to be an effective technique to correct proximal plantar flexion deformity of the second toe, while preserving active plantar flexion.

Flexor digitorum brevis tendon transfer to the flexor digitorum longus tendon according to Valtin in posttraumatic flexible claw toe deformity due to extrinsic toe flexor shortening

Claw toe deformity after posterior leg compartment syndrome is rare but incapacitating. When the mechanism is flexor digitorum longus (FDL) shortening due to ischemic contracture of the muscle after posterior leg syndrome, a good treatment option is the Valtin procedure in which the flexor digitorum brevis (FDB) is transferred to the FDL after FDL tenotomy. The Valtin procedure reduces the deformity by lengthening and reactivating the FDL. Here, we report the outcomes of FDB to FDL transfer according to Valtin in 10 patients with posttraumatic claw toe deformity treated a mean of 34 months after the injury. Toe flexion was restored in all 10 patients, with no claw toe deformity even during dorsiflexion of the ankle.

Percutaneous forefoot surgery

Percutaneous methods can be used to perform many surgical procedures on the soft tissues and bones of the forefoot, thereby providing treatment options for all the disorders and deformities seen at this site. Theoretical advantages of percutaneous surgery include lower morbidity rates and faster recovery with immediate weight bearing. Disadvantages are the requirement for specific equipment, specific requirements for post-operative management, and lengthy learning curve. At present, percutaneous hallux valgus correction is mainly achieved with chevron osteotomy of the first metatarsal, for which internal fixation and a minimally invasive approach (2 cm incision) seem reliable and reproducible. This procedure is currently the focus of research and evaluation. Percutaneous surgery for hallux rigidus is simple and provides similar outcomes to those of open surgery. Lateral metatarsal malalignment and toe deformities are good indications for percutaneous treatment, which produces results similar to those of conventional surgery with lower morbidity rates. Finally, fifth ray abnormalities are currently the ideal indication for percutaneous surgery, given the simplicity of the procedure and post-operative course, high reliability, and very low rate of iatrogenic complications. The most commonly performed percutaneous techniques are described herein, with their current indications, main outcomes, and recent developments.

Temporary Kirschner wire transfixation versus strapping dressing after second MTP joint realignment surgery: a comparative study with ten-year follow-up

BACKGROUND

Instability of the second metatarsophalageal (MTP) joint is a common disorder of the forefoot and can be addressed operatively. The objective of this study was to compare a temporary K-wire fixation (tKW) to a postoperative strapping dressing (SD) after realignment surgery of second MTP instability in combination with correction of claw toe deformity.

METHODS

Fifty-four consecutive patients with metatarsal index plus or neutral and a collective total of 62 operative interventions were examined at 10 years postoperatively. The operative intervention included dorsal capsulotomy, incision of the extensor hood, and lengthening of the extensor tendon. All operations were carried out at a single institution by orthopedic surgeons experienced in foot surgery. One team preferred fixation with tKW, whereas the other team used only noninvasive SD for postoperative management. The assessment included the American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) metatarsophalangeal-interphalangeal score as well as the visual analogue scale (VAS) for pain. Kaplan Meier analysis with recurrence of subluxation as the end point was performed, and plain radiographs of the forefoot were investigated.

RESULTS

Survival without recurrence of second MTP subluxation was significantly higher in the tKW group (93%) compared with the SD group (88%) (P < .001). There was no statistical significant difference in pre- to postoperative AOFAS and VAS pain between the 2 groups.

CONCLUSION

Temporary K-wire fixation had a significantly lower recurrence rate of second MTP subluxation compared with postoperative SD for postoperative alignment management in second MTP instability.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III, therapeutic study.