A novel tendinous interconnection release technique for claw-toe deformity.

Claw-toe deformity is a common and potentially debilitating condition that requires appropriate diagnosis and management. Operative treatments for claw-toe deformity depend on the severity and flexibility. In a subset of patients, causation for flexible clawed lesser toes can be related to the force transferred through the tendinous interconnection from the flexor hallucis longus tendon to the flexor digitorum longus tendon. The authors present a surgical technique for claw-toe deformity correction by releasing the tendinous interconnection from the flexor hallucis longus tendon to the flexor digitorum longus tendon in the midfoot area combined with toe manipulation. This technique can theoretically prevent the lack of toe grasp function associated with a flexor tenotomy as well as excessive stiffness associated with a flexor tendon transfer. Meticulous soft tissue dissection and protection of the medial plantar nerve are required to prevent complications.