Surgical correction of metatarsophalangeal joint dislocation and arthritic deformity: the partial head and plantar condylectomy.

The partial head and plantar condylectomy has been presented as a procedure indicated in the correction of dislocated metatarsophalangeal joints. Although there may be a number of causes of dislocation, the surgical correction is the same. A skin plasty is useful in preventing a cocked-up toe, and this is performed at the plantar aspect of the base of the toe. A V-osteotomy, or other metatarsal dorsiflectory procedure, is recommended when the neighboring metatarsal is only slightly plantar flexed or greater. This prevents the occurrence of transfer lesions so commonly associated with this procedure. Two case studies have been presented demonstrating successful results when the procedure is performed on both the second and third metatarsophalangeal joints. We contend that the partial head and plantar condylectomy is a valuable procedure in reconstructive surgery of the foot.