Abstract
The surgical correction of hammertoe deformity of the lesser toes is one of the most commonly performed forefoot procedures. In general, percutaneous Kirschner wires are used to provide fixation to the resected proximal interphalangeal joint. Although these wires are effective, issues such as pin tract infection as well as difficult postoperative management by patients make alternative fixation methods desirable.
The biomechanical studies suggested that the bioabsorbable implant would be a suitable fixation device for the hammer toe procedure. These wire are made of a copolymer of 82% poly-L-lactic acid and 18% polyglycolic acid.
The aim of our study was to assess the clinical outcome of these two implants. We compared 100 consecutive proximal interphalangeal joint fusions performed with each implant. There was no statistically significant difference in the fusion rate at six months using either implant. However, there was significant statistical difference in cost, rate of infection, implant migration, recurrence of deformity, patient’s return to driving, walking with routine foot wear and satisfaction. There was 11% rate of reactive inflammation in the absorbable wire group but no infection.
The study shows the absorbable wires are safe for fusion of proximal inter phalangeal joints.
Correspondence should be addressed to: Mr Andrew H. N. Robinson, Editorial Secretary, Department of Trauma and Orthopaedics, BOX 37, Addenbrooke’s Hospital, Cambridge CB2 2QQ, England.
