Use of Skin Z-Plasty for Management of Extension Contracture in Recurrent Claw- and Hammertoe Deformity

Nine patients with recurrent metatarsophalangeal joint extension contracture after clawtoe or hammertoe procedures were treated with Z-plasty skin closures as part of the revision surgical procedure. The indication for performing the Z-plasty was the presence of scar contracture in the skin that prevented satisfactory correction of the toe. Soft tissue release of the metatarsophalangeal joint was followed by a simple dorsal skin Z-plasty transposition. Patients were evaluated 1 1/2 to 6 years after revision surgery. No recurrence of the extension contracture had occurred.