Modified biplanar chevron osteotomy.

BACKGROUND

The surgical treatment of hallux valgus with an increased distal metatarsal articular angle (DMAA) should include the correction of this angle to maintain a congruent joint. The purpose of this study was to report our results with this procedure.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

From January 2000 until December 2006, 23 feet (13 patients) with an increased DMAA were operated upon by the same surgeon using a biplanar chevron osteotomy. The technique was modified making the plantar cut more horizontal and only removing a wedge from the dorsal cut. Clinical and radiographic evaluation was made after a mean followup of 56 months. The AOFAS score for the hallux was used and angular deformities were measured. The patients had a mean age of 51 years and were all female.

RESULTS

A good functional result was achieved with a mean AOFAS score of 87. An improvement of the angular deformities was noted in all patients. The mean hallux valgus angle improved from 28 degrees pre-op to 14 degrees post-op, the intermetatarsal angle from 12 degrees to 7 degrees and the DMAA from 20 degrees to 7 degrees. All patients except one were satisfied with the outcome of the procedure. Minimally symptomatic AVN of the metatarsal head was observed in one foot.

CONCLUSIONS

We conclude that this procedure is a good choice for the treatment of symptomatic hallux valgus with an increased DMAA, producing a good clinical and radiographic result.