Background: This retrospective study was designed to evaluate a surgical treatment for swan neck deformity of the fingers involving the volar transfer of the lateral band using the transverse retinacular ligament.
Methods: Ten patients who underwent this surgical procedure for swan neck deformity treatment and were followed up for a mean of 26 months (range: 12-65 months) were included in the study. The dorsally located lateral bands were transferred toward the volar aspect of the finger, and their position was maintained using the transverse retinacular ligament. Improvement of the snapping and swan neck deformity was confirmed by intraoperative active motion of the finger. The active range of motion of the affected finger was evaluated pre- and postoperatively.
Results: Extension of the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint averaged 30° (range: 20°-40°) preoperatively and improved to -2° (range: -5°-0°) postoperatively. Extension of the distal interphalangeal (DIP) joint averaged -30° (range: -15° to -70°) preoperatively and improved to -15° (range: 0° to -55°) postoperatively. The mean improvement in range of motion of the DIP joint was 15° (range: 10°-25°). The flexion of both the PIP and DIP joint did not significantly change in any of the patients postoperatively.
Conclusions: Surgical transfer of the lateral band using the transverse retinacular ligament is effective in correcting mild swan neck deformity. Hyperextension of the PIP joint is corrected well, but the severe extension lag of the DIP joint remains uncorrected postoperatively.
Keywords: lateral band; swan neck deformity; transverse retinacular ligament; volar transfer; volar translocation.