Lambda Repair: A Novel Repair Technique for Chronic Boutonnière Deformity

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Hand Surgery
• Reconstructive Surgery

Background:

• Boutonnière deformity presents a significant challenge in hand surgery.
• Surgical intervention is often necessary when conservative treatments like hand therapy fail to restore finger function.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce and evaluate the efficacy of the novel lambda (λ) repair technique for boutonnière deformity.
• To assess the functional outcomes, specifically proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint mobility, following lambda repair.

Main Methods:

• The study retrospectively evaluated four patients who underwent lambda repair for boutonnière deformity.
• The lambda repair involves an end-to-side tenorrhaphy of the lateral bands, creating a lambda shape.
• Preoperative and postoperative PIP joint range of motion (extension lag and active flexion) were measured.

Main Results:

• The average PIP joint extension lag decreased from 28.75 degrees to 15 degrees post-surgery.
• Average active PIP joint flexion improved from 60 degrees to 88.75 degrees.
• No complications were reported in the evaluated patients.

Conclusions:

• The lambda repair is presented as an effective and easy-to-learn surgical technique for boutonnière deformity.
• This novel method expands the surgical options available to hand surgeons for treating this condition.