Digital Lengthening with One Stage Autologous Bone Graft for Correction of Flail Toe: A case report

Abstract

A flail toe, or sometimes called floppy toe is the result of aggressive resection of the proximal phalanx after hammertoe correction resulting in a toe that lacks stability and function. There is lack of function resulting from contracture of the toe and lack of toe purchase. There is usually associated pain from toe contracture that can press the toe against the top of closed shoes not to mention the poor cosmetic results causing embarrassment and pain. We present a case of flail toe corrected by autologous bone using graft from the shaft of the first metatarsal. After successful surgery, this one-stage lengthening procedure is stable and restored length to the toe.