[Experiences with the Butler procedure for overlapping fifth toe].
Overlapping fifth toe is a finding in pediatric orthopaedics which rarely requires operative therapy.


METHODS
Between Jan. 1, 1992 and Dec. 31, 2002 five operations of an overlapping fifth toe using the Butler procedure were performed at a mean patients age of 5.5 years (min: 3, max: 9). All patients were clinically evaluated after a mean follow-up of 6 years (min: 2, max: 10) according to the score of Black. We present the technique of the Butler procedure and discuss the relevant literature.


RESULTS
An excellent result was achieved in all patients. Despite the extensive soft tissue release no complications could be found.


CONCLUSIONS
The Butler procedure is a simple and safe procedure without any need of immobilisation.
Schuh
A
A
Abteilung für Kinderorthopädie der Orthopädischen Klinik Wichernhaus, Rummelsberg. schuh-alexander@t-online.de
Werber
S
S
Zeiler
G
G
Schraml
A
A
D001178:Arthroplasty; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D005532:Foot Deformities, Congenital / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D019637:Orthopedic Procedures; D013997:Time Factors; D014034:Toes / Q000002:abnormalities* / Q000601:surgery*; D016896:Treatment Outcome