Physiolysis for correction of clinodactyly with delta phalanx: Early improvement.

Abstract

Congenital clinodactyly known as delta phalanx is a congenital finger deviation caused by a middle phalanx abnormality. Progressive realignment can be achieved with normal growth through physiolysis according to Vickers. The purpose of this investigation was to identify the rate of correction in congenital clinodactyly following epiphyseal bar resection.We studied retrospectively 24 fingers in 14 patients aged from 14\u2009months to 11\u2009years old (y/o), operated on by two surgeons performing epiphyseal bar resection using a modified Vickers method. Angle measurements were compared pre-operatively, at 1\u2009year and at the final follow-up. The rate of correction was evaluated at each time point. The cohort was divided into two groups: surgery\u2009<\u20096\u2009y/o and\u2009≥\u20096\u2009y/o. Statistical analyses were conducted to compare the patient groups.The mean deviation decreased from 33° pre-operatively (20°-80°) to 17.2° (0°-40°) at 1\u2009year after surgery. The deviation at the last follow-up decreased to 10.6° (0°-40°). Seventy percent of the operated fingers were completely corrected (angle\u2009≤\u200910°) at the latest follow-up visit. No difference was found regarding the age at surgery. There were two cases of premature fusion of the epiphyseal plates. Regardless of the patient s age, Vickers procedure is a simple and effective solution for treating delta phalanx with early correction. Our data suggest that physiolysis is a successful surgery in patients up to 11\u2009years old. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV, therapeutic case series.