An unusual cause of ulceration: ainhum (dactylolysis spontanea)

We describe a case of ainhum, a mutilating condition, usually seen in peoples of West African origin. A patient presented at the Diabetic Foot Clinic, Kings College Hospital, with a painful infected ulcer between the fourth and fifth toe of his right foot. He was a 43-year-old Nigerian and did not have diabetes. He reported that his left fifth toe had autoamputated some months before. Radiograph of the right fifth toe showed absorption of the proximal and intermediate phalanges, and a diagnosis of ainhum was made. Ainhum or dactylolysis spontanea is a rare condition of unknown aetiology in which a groove or fissure of constricting tissue forms around the proximal end of the fifth toe. Eventually, the groove extends to encircle the toe, the underlying structures are absorbed and the toe autoamputates. It may present as chronic fissuring at the base of the fifth toe or as foot ulceration. This condition is seldom seen in the United Kingdom, but it is likely that this condition is underdiagnosed. It is important that wound care specialists be aware of the diagnosis.     

The surgical pathology of ainhum (dactylolysis spontanea)

Ainhum (dactylolysis spontanea) is a poorly understood disease characterized by spontaneous autoamputation of the fifth toe. Its incidence is highest among blacks and in the tropical and subtropical climates. The present study is the first to present certain gross and semimicroscopic findings. Moreover, scanning electron microscopic and histochemical data are presented and these reportings are believed to be unique. Hyperkeratosis and parakeratosis, together with elongation of the epidermal rete pegs and acanthosis, are observed and these findings are associated with the presence of numerous fibroblasts and wound repair phenomena. The leukocytic infiltrate is identified as being principally of T lymphocyte type, suggesting the existence of an unknown immunologic response. Relevant intraoperative data, radiographs, and light microscopy, as well as transmission electron microscopy, have been reported in this study. The spontaneous amputation of the fifth toe, designated as dactylolysis spontanea, has no known etiology, and no treatment short of amputation. The worldwide incidence of this condition is rare. Two cases have been observed at the Baltimore Veterans Administration Medical Center in the last 5 years. One patient is in an early stage of the disease. The present study involves the single instance in which amputation was elected as the treatment of choice. Because the occurrence of ainhum (dactylolysis spontanea) is rare, discussion of the disease is lacking in medical literature. It is the intent of the present study to be the definitive analysis of clinical, surgical, and surgical-pathologic data of this rare disease. Unique applications of semimicroscopic, histochemical, and light microscopic findings, as well as transmission and electron microscopy, will be presented. Speculation as to the implications of immunologic and/or wound repair responses as implicated in ainhum needs to be explored.     

Operative repair of fourth and fifth toe corns

METHODS: We report a retrospective review of 57 consecutive patients (72 feet) over a period of 20 years who had been treated operatively for either a lateral fifth toe corn or an interdigital corn of the fourth interdigital space more than two years previously. Of these, 51 patients (62 feet) returned for a follow-up evaluation at a minimum of two years (average of over seven years) which included a review of the interval history since the surgery, a physical examination, a radiographic evaluation, and assessment of the patient's satisfaction with the alignment and results of surgery. Treatment of 31 lateral fifth toe corns involved either a lateral condylectomy and flexor tenotomy or a complete condylectomy. Treatment of 31 interdigital corns comprised either a single condylectomy, double condylectomy of adjacent corns, or a complete condylectomy (hammertoe repair) of a symptomatic corn. Treatment in each case was dependent upon the severity of the deformity. RESULTS: There was found to be no significant difference in comparison of the two major groups (interdigital corns and lateral fifth toe corns) with the measurement of the relative length of the fourth and fifth metatarsals, toe malalignment, angulation of the fourth and fifth toes (MTP-4, MTP-5 angles), and the phalangeal-5 angle. Pain was relieved in 58 of 62 feet (93%) and subjective acceptable alignment was achieved in 54 of 62 feet (87%). At final follow-up 53 feet were rated by patients as excellent, seven as good, one as fair, and one as poor. Complications included numbness of the involved digit (six feet). There were two superficial infections. There were two cases of joint instability due to excessive bone resection. Joint stiffness was commonly observed (34/62 feet, 55%), but was not associated with diminished satisfaction at final follow-up. Mild asymptomatic recurrence of a callosity was noted in 10 feet and moderate or severe recurrence was noted in two feet. Dissatisfaction was associated with moderate or severe recurrence. CONCLUSION: In this retrospective study at an average of more than seven years, we achieved a high level of patient satisfaction treating both lateral fifth toe corns and interdigital corns with a partial and/or complete condylectomy, the choice depending upon the magnitude of the deformity and the callus, and the fixed nature of the lesser toe deformity.     

Polydactyly and polysyndactyly of the fifth toe

Classification and treatment of polydactyly and polysyndactyly of the fifth toe are described based on a study of 37 patients with 46 affected feet. Polydactyly was seen in 26.1% of duplicated toes, polysyndactyly in 28.3%, and polysyndactyly fused with the fourth toe in 45.7%. Thirty-three patients with 42 toes were surgically treated. The medial toe was removed in patients with the duplicated fifth toe fused with the neighboring fourth toe; if necessary, a free full-thickness skin graft was performed on the fourth toe and not on the fifth toe. Either the lateral or the medial fifth toe was excised for better contour of the forefoot in patients with polysyndactyly without fusion with the fourth toe. The lateral digital ray, including the metatarsal, was excised in patients with polydactyly of the metatarsal type. The average age of patients at operation was 12.3 months (range, five days to five years). Reorganization of the foot was facilitated when the child was treated early or before it could walk.     

Zanoli's procedure for overlapping fifth toe: Retrospective study of 18 cases followed for 4-17 years

Digitus quintus superductus pedis (overlapping fifth toe) is a congenital deformity, often bilateral, in which the fifth toe is medially directed, rotated and hyperextended. There is no consensus regarding the best treatment. We describe our experience using Zanoli's procedure, which is a tenodesis procedure using the extensor tendon of the fifth toe. Between 1979 and 1993, we operated on 16 patients (7 bilateral, total 23 feet). 13 (10 women) patients (18 feet), with a mean age of 26 (19-40) years, were seen on follow-up. The mean follow-up time was 8 (4-17) years. Pain relief was achieved in all patients. From the surgeon's point of view, 3 toes overcorrected due to technical errors were considered unsatisfactory. All patients, however, were satisfied with the result and would advise other patients to undergo the same operation.     

Transfer der Extensor-digitorum-longus-Sehne zur Behandlung des flexiblen Digitus quintus varus superductus

Objective

Pain relief through realignment of the fifth toe by dorsomedial capsular release at the fifth metatarsophalaneal joint and transfer of the extensor digitorum longus tendon to the aponeurosis of the abductor digiti quinti muscle.

Indications

Flexible overlapping fifth toe deformity.

Contraindications

Fixed deformity. Angular toe deformity distal to the metatarsophalangeal joint (e.g. delta phalanx). Lateral drift of all lesser toes.

Surgical technique

Dorsolateral approach to the fifth metatarsophalangeal joint. Release of the dorsomedial capsule. Tenotomy of the fifth extensor digitorum longus tendon at the dorsum of the foot. Transfer of the distally based tendon around the proximal phalanx to the aponeurosis of the abductor digiti quinti muscle. Correction of the deformity by tensioning the tendon graft appropriately.

Postoperative management

Ambulation with full weightbearing in a postoperative shoe. Toe alignment dressing for 6 weeks.

Results

A total of 48 patients (56 feet; average age 37 years) with a flexible overlapping fifth toe deformity were followed up after soft tissue release and transfer of the extensor digitorum longus tendon; 40 patients (48 feet) were re-evaluated clinically after 11.4 months (range 9–26 months). Postoperative complications were sensory disturbance at the lateral side of the fifth toe (n?=?5), superficial wound slough (n?=?3). Follow-up results included broad and hypertrophic scars at the fifth metatarsophalangeal joint (n?=?16), physiological alignment of the fifth toe in 37 feet (77.1?%), overcorrection (interdigital space 4/5?>?3 mm) in 4 feet (8.3?%), undercorrection in 7 feet (14.6?%). In 4 feet the undercorrection could be attributed to a Tailor’s bunion deformity, which was not treated appropriately.     

Biphalangeal fifth toe

BACKGROUND: A biphalangeal fifth toe is a common variant in the European population. The frequency is higher in the Japanese population. It is considered an anatomical variant of the normal triphalangeal fifth toe. METHODS: Patients divided into three study groups were retrospectively reviewed to determine the effect of a biphalangeal fifth toe on the occurrence of clinically symptomatic pathology of the fifth ray. RESULTS: The prevalence of a biphalangeal fifth toe in patients with hammer or claw toes was 65%, bunionettes 47%, and overriding fifth toe 37%. Only for the group with hammer or claw toes was prevalence significantly higher than that in the control group (39%). CONCLUSION: The stiffness and rigidity of the biphalangeal fifth toe may predispose it for symptomatic hammer or claw toe.     

Examination of Postoperative Outcomes Using Morphological and X-Ray Classifications and Selection of the Toe to Be Excised in Postaxial Polydactyly of the Foot

The treatment of postaxial polydactyly requires excision of the medial fifth or lateral sixth toe, and separation of the adjacent fourth/fifth toes if the adjacent toes exhibit skin syndactyly. Morphological changes in the retained toes and reoperation are common problems after such surgery. This study examined the effects of preoperative classifications and selecting the medial fifth or lateral sixth toe for excision on the postoperative outcomes of surgery for postaxial polydactyly. From April 2006 to March 2019, surgery for postaxial polydactyly was performed on 55 feet in 49 patients. The patients’ mean age at surgery was 28.8 months. Postoperative esthetic and bone alignment scores, the reoperation rate, and postoperative dysfunction were examined. The postoperative esthetic and bone alignment evaluations were performed by examining postoperative photograph and X-ray images using original scoring systems. The surgical procedure was chosen by the surgeon-in-charge during a preoperative conference after considering the toe growth and bone alignment. In the postoperative esthetic evaluation, excising the lateral sixth toe produced significantly better outcomes than excising the medial fifth toe. The morphological classification also indicated that excising the lateral sixth toe produced better outcomes, as it resulted in the bifurcated toes being clearly independent. Interestingly, the postoperative X-ray-based bone alignment score was not correlated with the esthetic score. The reoperation rate tended to be high after medial fifth toe excision. There were no postoperative functional complications. Lateral sixth toe excision for postaxial polydactyly of the foot produces good postoperative esthetic outcomes.     

Uremic tumoral calcinosis of the foot mimicking infection

Uremic tumoral calcinosis is an uncommon, benign condition characterized by slow-growing calcified periarticular soft tissue masses of varying size. We describe two patients with chronic renal failure on hemodialysis presenting uremic tumoral calcinosis, one in the fifth toe of the right foot and the other in the dorsum of the left foot between the first and second metatarsals. Excision of the calcic masses and parathyroidectomy were successfully performed in both patients. These cases are unusual in their rapid onset, mimicking acute infection. Differential diagnosis, radiological features and therapy are discussed.     

Macrodactyly of the foot

BACKGROUND: The purpose of this study was to focus on the problems associated with macrodactyly of the foot and to formulate guidelines for optimum treatment. METHODS: Seventeen feet (fifteen patients) with macrodactyly formed the basis of this retrospective review. The feet were classified into one of two groups, depending on whether the macrodactyly involved only the lesser toes (group A) or involved the great toe with or without involvement of the lesser toes (group B). Toe amputation or ray resection was usually done to reduce the length and width of the foot in group A, whereas the length of the first ray was reduced by epiphysiodesis or amputation of the phalanx in four of the five feet in group B. In both groups, soft-tissue debulking was an integral part of the treatment. The severity of the macrodactyly and the effect of treatment were documented radiographically by measurement of the so-called metatarsal spread angle. At the latest follow-up evaluation, each foot was graded with regard to pain and shoe wear. RESULTS: Toe amputation was performed in six of the twelve feet in group A and toe shortening was performed in two, but only three of those procedures had a good result. Ray resection was performed in five feet (as an initial or secondary procedure) in Group A, and all had a good result. The mean reduction of the metatarsal spread angle was 10.0 degrees following resection of a single ray in Group A. In Group B, four of the five feet were rated as having only a fair result because shortening alone did not effectively reduce the size of the great toe. The macrodactyly of the great toe was not treated in the fifth foot, which also had a fair result. CONCLUSIONS: Toe amputation, which is cosmetically unappealing, is not effective for treating macrodactyly of the lesser toes and does not address the enlargement of the forefoot. Ray resection results in the best cosmetic and functional outcomes in feet with involvement of the lesser toes. When the great toe is involved, the result is often only fair, and repeated soft-tissue debulking may be necessary.     

Stress fractures of the medial great toe sesamoids in athletes

The purpose of this study was to determine whether specific symptoms and findings are present in patients with symptomatic stress fractures of the sesamoids of the great toe and, if so, whether partial sesamoidectomy is sufficient for successful treatment. Five consecutive athletes (five females; mean age 16.8 years [range, 13 to 22 years]) with six feet that were treated for symptomatic stress fractures of the sesamoids of the great toe were included in this study. Four athletes (five feet) performed rhythmic sports gymnastics; the fifth athlete was a long jumper. Some swelling to the forefoot and activity-related pain that increased in forced dorsiflexion, but disappeared at rest was found in all patients. While plain X-rays evidenced fragmentation of the medial sesamoid, MRI (n=2) and frontal plane CT scan (n=3) did not always confirm the diagnosis, but bone scan (n=3) and axial as well as sagittal CT scan were useful to detect the pathology. After failure of conservative treatment measures, surgical excision of the proximal fragment was successful in all patients, and there were no complications. All patients were pain free and regained full sports activity within six months (range, 2.5 to six months). At final follow-up which averaged 50.6 months (range, 20 to 110 months), the overall clinical results were graded as good/excellent in all patients, and there was only one patient with of restriction sports activities. The obtained AOFAS-Hallux-Score was 95.3 (75 to 100) points. Apparently, stress fractures occur more often at the medial sesamoid, and females are mainly involved. When a stress fracture is suspected, bone scan and CT scan are suggested as more reliable in confirming the diagnosis than other imaging methods. When conservative treatment has failed, surgical excision of the proximal fragment is recommended.     

第一跖趾关节融合联合二至五跖趾关节成形治疗类风湿关节炎致前足畸形

 目的 探讨采用第一跖趾关节融合联合二至五跖趾关节成形治疗类风湿关节炎致前足畸形的效果。方法 回顾性分析2007年6月至2010年10月采用第一跖趾关节融合联合二至五跖趾关节成形治疗19例(35足)类风湿关节炎致前足畸形患者资料,男2例(4足),女17例(31足);年龄33～73岁,平均56岁。患者均有不同程度外翻锤状趾畸形和跖痛。采用美国足踝外科协会(American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society,AOFAS)趾、跖趾、趾间关节评分及视觉模拟(visual analogue scale,VAS)评分评价手术效果。在术前及术后X线片上测量外翻角(hallux valgus angle,HVA)及第一、二跖骨间角(intermetatarsal angle,IMA),了解畸形矫正情况。结果 术后17例(32足)患者获得平均42个月随访,患足外形均得到不同程度改善;29足跖痛完全消失;3足出现第五跖骨外侧转移性跖痛,经垫前足减压垫缓解。1足因趾末节部分坏死而切除。成形的跖趾关节均有不同程度僵硬。AOFAS评分、VAS评分、HVA及IMA度数,术前分别为(46．82±6．13)分、(9.03±1.82)分、38.96°±10.13°、15.87°±3.43°,末次随访时为(84.25±2.87)分、(2.12±0.67)分、15.84°±5.12°、10.35°±1.67°。根据AOFAS评分,优23足,良5足,可4足,优良率为87.5%(28/32)。结论 第一跖趾关节融合联合二至五跖趾关节成形治疗类风湿关节炎致前足畸形效果优良,术后能明显矫正畸形,缓解疼痛,改善功能。     

Modified resection arthroplasty for infected non-healing ulcers with toe deformity in diabetic patients

BACKGROUND: Diabetic motor neuropathy is expressed as the loss of function and the contracture of the intrinsic muscles of the foot, leading to the classic claw toe deformity. This deformity predisposes the foot to ulcerations on the dorsum or tip of the toes or an interdigital ulcer over a condyle between the toes. We present our results of a modified resection arthroplasty for the treatment of this difficult problem. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this study, 72 toes (57 feet) with a deformity in the second to fifth toe accompanied by chronically infected ulcers were involved. All patients underwent modified resection arthroplasty of the PIP or DIP joint depending on the ulcer location. The second toe was involved in 27 cases (38%), the third toe in 11 cases (15%), the fourth toe in 19 cases (26%), and the fifth toe in 15 cases (21%). With the exception of 4 patients, all had a positive culture, including 7 cases of MRSA. The mean followup was 28.7 +/- 8.1 months. RESULTS: The mean wound healing time was 25.6 +/- 6.2 days. Three cases eventually required toe amputation but there was no proximal spread of infection. No recurrence of a claw toe or ulcer occurred in the remaining toes. CONCLUSION: We believe that modified resection arthroplasty for toe deformities with chronic infected ulcers in diabetic patients is a good treatment alternative to toe amputation.     

Surgical Procedures Based on the Arthrographic Findings of the Fifth MTP Joint With Proximal Phalanx Duplication in Postaxial Polydactyly of the Foot

Radiographic findings in several atypical cases of postaxial polydactyly of the foot do not provide sufficient information to assess the cartilaginous structures or duplicated digit connections at the MTP joint. The purpose of this study was to demonstrate the surgical procedures using arthrography for the cartilaginous structures of the MTP joint in postaxial polydactyly of the foot. We performed arthrography in 7 feet of 7 patients with postaxial polydactyly of the foot in which duplication of the proximal phalanx was observed at the fifth MTP joint on the basis of radiographic evaluation. The average age at surgery was 13.5 months and average duration of postsurgical follow-up was 36 months. Individual surgical procedures were confirmed or modified during the operation by reference to the arthrographic findings. Radiographic and arthrographic findings were assessed in relation to the findings from direct observation of the cartilaginous structures at surgery. Postoperative malalignment, functional disturbance and pain in the reconstructed toe were evaluated. The arthrographic findings provided different forms of cartilaginous structures that could be categorized in 4 types, and reflected the cartilaginous connection visualized at surgery that could not be detected on radiographs in each case. No cases revealed any deformities, functional disturbance, or pain in the reconstructed toe after surgery. The parents’ evaluation in each case was “very satisfied” or “satisfied.” The arthrographic findings provided additional information regarding variations in the cartilaginous structures of the fifth MTP joint and for determining individual surgical procedure for postaxial polydactyly of the foot.     

Biomechanical abnormalities and ulcers of the great toe in patients with diabetes

A prospective analysis was conducted to identify structural and biomechanical first ray abnormalities in consecutive diabetic patients presenting with their first great toe ulcer. Twenty-six patients (33 feet) met the inclusion criteria, with seven patients having bilateral hallux ulcers. There was no other history of ulcer, trauma, or surgery on the respective limb. Data were obtained during the patients' initial presentation with a great toe ulcer and included verbal history, standardized weight bearing radiographs, and standardized objective clinical measurements. Four patients (four feet) with subungual ulcers were included because of mechanical etiology. Twenty-four of the remaining 29 involved limbs exhibited gastrocnemius/soleus equinus and two other limbs had gastrocnemius equinus. Twenty-eight of 29 had structural hallux limitus. Twenty-four had hallux interphalangeal abductus. Twenty of the 33 ulcers were located plantar-medially at the interphalangeal joint area. Other frequent findings were first ray elevatus or dorsiflexion deformity (18 of 29), functional hallux limitus (14 of 29), interphalangeal joint sesamoid bone (13 of 29), hyperextended interphalangeal joint (13 of 29), and a prominent plantar-medial condyle of the proximalaspect of the distalphalanx (7 of 29). Halluxmalleus was less common (4 of 29), but consistently associated with plantar-distal tip ulceration. Metatarsus primus adductus was also infrequent (6 of 29). This study identifies and illustrates the importance of several biomechanical and structural factors present on initial presentation of great toe ulcers. Addressing these factors may improve the success of treatment and lessen the occurrence of this common and complex problem.     

Study of straight metatarsal osteotomy for the treatment of plantar callosities

BACKROUND AND AIMS: To evaluate the outcome of transverse distal metatarsal osteotomies for intractable plantar callosity without hammer toe deformity and associated toe corns. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Twenty-five plantar callosities were treated in 19 feet of 13 patients (mean age 48 years, 5 male, 8 female) with transverse distal metatarsal osteotomy. RESULTS: Twenty-four of the osteotomies united primarily, one after revision. After a 7-year follow-up, 23 of the callosities had healed, two of them after an oblique reosteotomy. Eight hammer toe deformities had developed in the involved rays of four feet. Eight plantar callosities had developed outside the operated rays in five feet. Hallux valgus was a frequent finding in both operated and non-operated feet. CONCLUSION: It seems that transverse distal metatarsal osteotomy is an effective treatment of intractable plantar callosities. Harmful hammer toe deformities and transfer lesions below adjacent metatarsal heads tend to develop over time.     

Inherited Accessory Nail of the Fifth Toe Cured by Surgical Matricectomy

BACKGROUND: The inherited accessory nail of the fifth toe is a common condition in the Chinese population. OBJECTIVE: The objective was to demonstrate three lesions in two cases of inherited accessory nail of the fifth toe successfully treated with surgical matricectomy. METHODS: Under local anesthesia and use of tourniquet, the proximal nail fold was incised and the matrix of the accessory nail was exposed and then excised by scalpel surgery. The skin defect left after removal of the lesion was repaired with a rotation flap. RESULTS: Histopathologic examination of the surgical specimens revealed that the matrices of the accessory nails were completely extirpated. No recurrence was found 2 years after operation. CONCLUSION: The inherited accessory nail of the fifth toe was cured by surgical matricectomy.     

The role of toe flexor-to-extensor transfer in correcting metatarsophalangeal joint instability of the second toe

BACKGROUND: The purpose of the study was to evaluate the outcome of flexor digitorum longus (FDL) transfer to the dorsum and to identify a possible continued role for this transfer in conjunction with additional surgeries for second metatarsophalangeal joint (MTPJ) instability. METHODS: We carried out a retrospective analysis on patients with second MTPJ instability for which the FDL transfer was done as the primary procedure between 1996 and 2001. The patients were examined for functional status, residual pain, and satisfaction. RESULTS: A total of 64 feet (59 patients) were evaluated, with an average followup period of 45.2 (16 to 82) months. A cross-over second toe deformity was present in 56 feet (87%) with a stage II deformity being the most common (18 feet). There also were seven feet with vertical subluxation. An additional second metatarsal Weil osteotomy was done in 29 feet (45%), a proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint resection arthroplasty in 22 feet, and a PIP joint fusion in nine feet. At final followup of the 59 feet that were physically examined, 22 (37%) had residual second MTPJ dorsiflexion contracture and 16 feet had persistent medial deviation. The second toe was stable to stress manipulation in 46 feet (78%). The mean toe pulp to ground distance on standing was 3 mm, and strong toe grasp was possible in 45 feet. There were 20 complications in 64 feet. Twenty-five patients (29 feet) were very satisfied, 15 satisfied with minor reservations, six with major reservation, and 14 patients were unhappy with the outcome. The American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society functional score was on average 82 points (47 to 100) at final followup. CONCLUSION: Although the function of the second toe improved in most patients as a result of pain relief, a substantial number of the patients in this study remained dissatisfied because of residual stiffness of the toe. The flexor tendon transfer remains an important procedure in correction of second toe instability but must be used with a full understanding of potential complications and patient dissatisfaction.     

Comparative anthropometric analysis of shod and unshod feet

The aim of this study was to assess and compare intrinsic forefoot function and pliability of the forefoot in selected cohorts of shoe wearing and barefoot populations. Measurements on the right foot of randomly selected 100 non-shoe wearing (Indians) and 100 shoe wearing (British) groups were carried out. Both groups were matched for age, sex and body mass index, and had not previously suffered foot problems.Using a force gauge, the force of extension and flexion of the great toe, adduction between the first and second toe and abduction at fifth metatarsophalangeal joint was measured. The length and width of the weight bearing and non-weight bearing feet in these groups was compared using a Pliability ratio. Using the Student t-test at 95% confidence interval, there was no statistically significant difference in the intrinsic forefoot muscle function. Multivariate regression analysis showed that after adjustment for other variables like gender and ethnicity, the shod status had a significant influence on the pliability ratio. This study showed that although shoe wearing does not affect the intrinsic forefoot muscle strength, it appeared to result in stiffer forefeet. This difference is more marked in women (p = 0.008) as compared to men (p = 0.0171).Shoe wearing can affect the transmission of forces during locomotion. This can be both in the dynamic and the static settings. Most shoes have an inbuilt medial arch support and toe boxes that are narrower than the true width of forefeet wearing them. This may result in incomplete accommodation of the dynamic correlates of the transverse and longitudinal arches of the foot leading to stiffer feet that may have a negative influence on their functional capability.     

Middle Phalangectomy for the Correction of Toe Clinodactyly With Longitudinal Epiphyseal Bracket in Young Children

Toe clinodactyly is often owed to the presence of a longitudinal epiphyseal bracket. We developed middle phalangectomy as a simple surgical solution for correction of toe clinodactyly because of longitudinal epiphyseal bracket in childhood. Ten children (ages 1–5 years) were operated on by the same surgeon between October 2007 and May 2012 (n = 15 feet). The same surgical technique was used in all the cases. A clinical evaluation included the appearance of the foot, the parents’ level of satisfaction, and the presence or absence of bothersome symptoms (such as pain and discomfort when wearing footwear). A radiological evaluation under weight-bearing conditions enabled us to 1) rate the achievement of a natural-looking toe parabola and 2) detect the recurrence of clinodactyly (defined as an angle of >40° between 2 adjacent phalanges). The mean follow-up period was 5.4 (range 3.3 to 8.1) years. Nine sets of parents (90%) were satisfied with the results of the procedure. None had difficulties wearing boots, and only 1 child (10%) had residual pain during sports activities. Clinodactyly recurred in 3 feet in 3 patients (20% of feet, 30% of patients). Two (20%) of the latter patients underwent repeat surgery and achieved a lasting, satisfactory outcome. Middle phalangectomy is an appropriate procedure for the treatment of toe clinodactyly because of longitudinal epiphyseal bracket in young children. However, the patients’ long-term outcomes (notably once bone growth has ended) must be assessed.