gms | German Medical Science

Objectives/Interrogation: An imbalance between finger flexors and extensors would seem like the primary cause of camptodactyly. It is propably because of deficient intrinsics' function. The long term (more than 10 years) results of management of such problem is presented.

Methods: Isolated (non syndromic) symptomatic camptodactyly affecting 56 fingers of 32 children were comprised. An abnormal lumbrical muscle of the affected finger was reported in all cases; being absent, rudimentary or abnormally attached. Surgical treatment using dynamic tenodesis (Lasso procedure), that aims at metacarpophalangeal joint stabilization and a better extensor- flexor forces balance, so enhancing proximal interphalangeal joint extension, was used. All tight soft tissue structures were also released.

Results and Conclusions: After a mean follow-up period of 12.4 years, 49 fingers were rated as good or excellent results according to modified Siegert et al. (1990) grading system. The mean final proximal interphalangeal joint flexion deformity was 12o with a mean gain in motion of 75o. Joint subluxation, lack of full flexion and stiffness occurred in seven fingers. Three were subjected to further surgery and another four had improved with exercises.

The used procedure is rather simple. The outcome of management of camptodactyly, with the use of this method, is encouraging and no longer unpredictable.