CLINICAL-EVALUATION OF THE RUIZ-MORA PROCEDURE - LONG-TERM FOLLOW-UP

The Ruiz-Mora procedure has been advocated for treatment of congenital overlapping fifth toes, fifth hammertoe, and clavus deformities, This study evaluated the results of the Ruiz-Mora procedure in 12 patients with an average follow-up of more than 4 years. The data indicate the majority of patients are satisfied with the results of the procedure. Unacceptable cosmesis was the primary complaint of all dissatisfied p atients. Assessment of preoperative versus postoperative symptoms indi cate an improvement in symptoms as well as maintenance of stability an d function. The average shortening of the toe was 12.8 mm. This presen ted no functional problems to the patients. Three patients had transie nt skin healing problems which resolved with local care, Based on this series, the Ruir-Mora procedure is effective in dealing with the prob lem of the cock-up fifth hammertoe and is associated with few complica tions. Because of patient dissatisfaction with cosmesis, consideration should be given to showing patients postoperative photographs of the procedure before surgery and reserving this procedure for salvage of i atrogenic cock-up deformities, recalcitrant hard corns, and congenital cock-up deformities.