Modified chevron osteotomy of the first metatarsal.

Twenty-nine modified chevron ostetotomies for symptomatic hallux valgus were performed in 17 patients, all of whom had excellent pain relief and acceptable cosmesis, with occasional discomfort persisting in only two of 29 feet. The average postoperative decrease in the intermetatarsal angle was 4 degrees, and in the metatarsophalangeal angle 13 degrees. Overall results were similar to those obtained with the Mitchell and chevron metatarsal osteotomies, but the increased mechanical stability afforded by the modified procedure permitted shorter periods of postoperative immobilization and a return to normal footwear by four weeks.