Modified double plantar plate tenodesis.

BACKGROUND: Metatarsophalangeal joint instability of the lesser toe can cause acquired toe deformity. Plantar plate deficiency is the major pathology. Plantar plate repair can stabilize the joint but may result in iatrogenic transverse plane toe deformity in correction of claw toe deformity. Limited toe extension can be resulted after correction of crossover toe deformity by plantar plate tenodesis and extensor digitorum brevis transfer. A modification of the technique is proposed.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: The clinical outcomes of 10 patients with the modified procedure performed were assessed.

RESULTS: The correction was full in all toes with no recurrence.

CONCLUSION: The modified technique can stabilize the metatarsophalangeal joint and correct lesser toe deformity without the need of tendon transfer, osteotomy or sophisticated instrumentation.