Extensor release

An alternate procedure to lengthen the long extensor tendons has been examined. Thirty-six separate cases, of which 22 were bilateral, were performed during a 2-year period. The operations were performed both with percutaneous and traditional exposed approaches. The procedures consisted of lengthening by simple tenotomy, Z-plasty, or tendon-slide of the extensor digitorum longus and peroneus tertius at the ankle level. Most were done as an adjunct to biomechanical treatment or osseous operations with a few of the procedures utilized as the sole mode of therapy. Although it was found that the ease of technique and accessibility of tissues made the procedures desirable, the extended postoperative period and efficacy for other than minimal contractures seemed to out-weigh the advantages. The conclusion is drawn that the extensor release at the level of the ankle is of potential value in selected patients with mild to moderate dorsoposterior digital contractures in conjunction with traditional podiatric treatment.