Reconstruction of the central slip by the transverse retinacular ligament for boutonnière deformity

A method of repair of boutonniere deformity is described, using the transverse retinacular ligament. Six fingers in five patients were treated by this procedure. The deformity was improved in all fingers; complete or almost complete correction was obtained in four fingers and incomplete correction in two. However, severe limitation of flexion of the D.I.P. joint appeared in two fingers after surgery. This procedure is not indicated for boutonniere deformities with severe contracture of the lateral band; its best indication is in cases in which the central slip is defective and conservative treatment is not effective.