[Correction arthrodesis of the proximal interphalangeal joint with wire cerclage for rigid small toe deformities : a prospective study].

Deformities of the small toes often occur with complex forefoot deformities. Proximal interphalangeal joint arthrodesis is a reliable correction procedure for rigid flexed proximal interphalangeal joints. The most often performed technique by far is K-wire fixation; however, pin tract infections, malrotation due to deficient securing of the rotation and irritation of the metatarsophalangeal joints are common complications. By using a 0.4 mm wire cerclage an individual position of the proximal interphalangeal joint in slight flexion is enabled whereby good compression can be achieved and malrotation can be avoided. In 32 patients with 64 fixed claw or hammer toes such a proximal interphalangeal joint arthrodesis was performed. The follow-up time was 2 years. In all cases clinical and radiological osteotomy healing occurred 6 weeks postoperatively and there were no complications. This technically simple and cost-efficient procedure appears to be a good alternative to known proximal interphalangeal joint arthrodesis methods.