Anatomic variations in the first ray: Part I. Anatomic aspects related to bunion surgery.

Dissection and roentgenographic findings in 35 nonoperative cadaveric and freshly amputated feet were correlated with disorders of the first day--specifically the sesamoids. There are four noteworthy factors associated with first ray pathology. The most significant are axial rotation of the first metatarsal bone and degenerative changes at the first metatarsophalangeal joint. Significant anatomic variations can be correlated with failed bunion surgery.