Abstract
Aim: Myerson and Sheriff described an anatomical basis for the correction of hammertoe deformity. Based on this model we performed a metatarsophalangeal soft tissue release and proximal interphalangeal arthroplasty. Method: Patients operated between March 1995 and January 2000 were retrospectively reviewed using the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society Scores (AOFAS) by independent assessors. Results: There were 84 patients with 99 feet and 179 hammertoes with a median follow-up of 28 months. The median AOFAS score was 83 and 87% of patients had a score of more than 60 points. Eighty-three percent of patients were satisþed while 17% were dissatisþed with the procedure. Pain at the metatarsophalangeal joint was the commonest cause of dissatisfaction with 14% having moderate or severe pain. Only 2.5% had metatarsophalangeal joint instability and 9% had callus formation. There was no statistical difference regarding the age and sex of the patient, number of toes operated on, associated hallux valgus surgery and follow-up of less than or greater than 2 years. Conclusions: This study is based on an anatomical model and shows a good result with no recurrence of hammertoe correction.
Theses abstracts were prepared by Professor Dr. Frantz Langlais. Correspondence should be addressed to him at EFORT Central Office, Freihofstrasse 22, CH-8700 Küsnacht, Switzerland.
