Outcomes of opening wedge osteotomy to correct angular deformity in little finger clinodactyly.

PURPOSE

To evaluate the outcomes and complications in a series of children with clinodactyly treated with opening wedge osteotomy of the abnormal phalanx.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective review of all children with clinodactyly treated at our institution with opening wedge osteotomy of the abnormal middle phalanx between 2003 and 2013. Patients with concomitant pathology or prior surgery in the affected finger were excluded. Preoperative and postoperative clinical angle, radiographic angle, digital range of motion, and pain were compared and complications were recorded.

RESULTS

We included 13 digits in 9 patients. All had greater than 20° of preoperative clinical angulation (mean, 36°). Mean age at time of surgery was 11 years; mean duration of follow-up was 25 months (range, 12-43 mo). All digits had significant improvement (mean, 32°) in clinical and radiographic angles after surgery. This improvement was maintained at final follow-up in 12 digits. Six patients had pain preoperatively and no patient had pain postoperatively. One digit had a recurrent deformity at final follow-up and 3 digits developed stiffness at the distal interphalangeal joint.

CONCLUSIONS

Opening wedge osteotomy is an effective treatment for angulation in children with clinodactyly. We counsel families regarding the risk of distal interphalangeal joint stiffness.

TYPE OF STUDY/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic IV.