Results of modified Robert Jones operation for clawed hallux

The results of modified Robert Jones operation for clawed hallux carried out on 36 feet were reviewed by clinical and radiological investigations. Twenty-nine feet (80 per cent) achieved good results while 3 feet (8-5 per cent) obtained fair results and in 4 feet (11 per cent) the results were poor. Better results were obtained in the poliomyelitis cases than in the other groups. Correction of deformity appears to be achieved by the transferred extensor hallucis longus elevating the first metatarsal neck and by the flexor hallucis longus flexing the rigid toe obtained by interphalangeal arthrodesis. Tendon regeneration which is associated with recurrent clawing remains a problem. Internal fixation should be used for the interphalangeal arthrodesis.