http://www.safehavenforcats.com/declaw.htm

* An alternative surgical procedure, deep digital flexor tendonectomy, was first described by John Rife, DVM (Journal AAHA, Jan/Feb 1988). This surgery involves severing the tendon attached to the end toe digit but maintaining the claw in the sheath. The cat is no longer able to extend the claws. The technique limits the cat's ability to damage surfaces when scratching as long as the claws are kept trimmed. It is less painful (cats recover within 2 days) and it has minimal postoperative risks. However, ongoing claw trimming is a must or the cat can use its claws again to some degree and there is a risk of the nail growing back into the pad unless they are kept trimmed Some veterinarians have reported joint fusion and arthritis problems. Most veterinarians do not favor this tecnique because of the potential of the client's dissatisfaction and ultimate desire for declawing