Long-term results of lateral band translocation for the correction of swan neck deformity in cerebral palsy.
OBJECTIVE
The aim of this study was to evaluate the long-term effect of lateral band translocation for correcting swan neck deformity in patients with cerebral palsy at a minimum follow-up of 5 years.


METHODS
Swan neck deformities of 62 fingers were corrected using a modified lateral band translocation. At 1-year and 5-year follow-up, any recurrence of hyperextension was recorded through nonconstrained evaluation. Active extension of the proximal interphalangeal joint beyond 0 degree was considered a recurrence.


RESULTS
Correction was successful for 84% of the operated fingers at 1-year follow-up. After 5 years, the success rate had decreased to 60%. Furthermore, no relationship was found between any of the concomitant surgical procedures and the number of patients with recurrences.


CONCLUSIONS
The long-term result of lateral band translocation is disappointing in our series, and it should not be advocated as a procedure with long-lasting success in patients with cerebral palsy.
de Bruin
Marije
M
Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Hand Surgery, Academic Medical Center, Suite G4-226, PO Box 22660, 1100 DD Amsterdam, The Netherlands. m.debruin@amc.uva.nl
van Vliet
Daphne C
DC
Smeulders
Mark J
MJ
Kreulen
Mick
M
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D002547:Cerebral Palsy / Q000150:complications*; D002648:Child; D005384:Finger Joint / Q000601:surgery*; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D016916:Joint Deformities, Acquired / Q000601:surgery*; D012008:Recurrence; D013997:Time Factors; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D055815:Young Adult