Jones Transfer to the Lesser Rays in Metatarsalgia: Technique and Long-Term Follow-Up

Abstract

Thirty-three feet in 29 patients with metatarsalgia were reviewed after Jones transfer to the lesser rays to evaluate the long-term results and the indications for these procedures.

Transfer of the long extensor tendons to their respective metatarsal necks and fusion of the interphalangeal joints with shortening of the toe were performed. The procedures were performed in patients with symptoms of metatarsalgia, secondary to anterior pes cavus deformity (clawfeet, 16 patients), and in patients with mild or severe spreadfoot deformity with fall of the central metatarsals (12 patients). In all of our patients, the striking clinical sign was the long toes.

Rating of the results was based on (1) the presence of pain or calluses and (2) residual deformity of the forefoot and toes. Symptoms of metatarsalgia were relieved in 25 feet, occasionally present in 6 feet, and unchanged in 2 patients. Complete correction of the deformity was achieved in 26 patients, 6 patients had slight residual deformities, and in the 1 poor result, overcorrection was present after the procedure.

This operation is believed to be an excellent choice for patients with metatarsalgia due to (simple) pes cavus deformity and in patients with clawing and metatarsalgia secondary to excessively long toes.