Long-term results of lateral band translocation for the correction of swan neck deformity in cerebral palsy.

PURPOSE: 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.