Hallux valgus: Indications and technique of proximal chevron osteotomy combined with distal soft tissue release

Acquired hallux valgus deformity arises from progressively changing relationships of the bones in the first ray of the foot. Ligamentous laxity develops at the medial capsule of the first metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint and the lateral capsule of the first metatarsocuneiform joint. The adductor hallucis tendons and the transverse metatarsal ligament tether the sesamoid bones and the base of the proximal phalanx of the great toe while the intermetatarsal angle (IMA) increases. These deforming forces are addressed by the distal soft tissue release in the first web space and the soft tissue plication at the medial aspect of the first MTP joint. The addition of the proximal chevron osteotomy of the first metatarsal shaft permits complete correction of the increased hallux valgus and intermetatarsal angles. The improved stability of the proximal chevron osteotomy over other types of osteotomies theoretically reduces the incidence of delayed transfer metatarsalgia. This article will show the anatomy of acquired hallux valgus, as well as the theories and techniques behind the authors' method of surgical correction.     

Endoscopic Distal Soft Tissue Procedure in Hallux Valgus Surgery

The distal soft tissue procedure is the basis of surgical hallux valgus correction. It involves release of the transverse metatarsal ligament, adductor hallucis, and lateral joint capsule, which permits the proximal phalanx to be realigned on the metatarsal head. The attenuated medial capsule is plicated after the medial bony prominence has been excised. We describe a new endoscopic approach for the distal soft tissue procedure with better cosmetic results.     

Minimally Invasive Retrocapital Osteotomy of the First Metatarsal in Hallux Valgus Deformity

OBJECTIVE: Percutaneous retrocapital distal osteotomy of the first metatarsal for surgical treatment of hallux valgus. INDICATIONS: Mild to moderate hallux valgus deformity in both juveniles and adults. Recurrent hallux valgus deformity after previous surgery. CONTRAINDICATIONS: Severe degenerative changes of the first metatarsophalangeal joint (hallux valgus et rigidus). Previous Keller's procedure. SURGICAL TECHNIQUE: A percutaneous distal linear osteotomy of the first metatarsal is performed and stabilized with a Kirschner wire. The surgical technique follows these steps: distal Kirschner wire insertion; skin incision; sparse periosteal detachment; distal retrocapital osteotomy of the first metatarsal; correction of the first intermetatarsal angle by lateral displacement of the capital fragment; stabilization with Kischner wire insertion into the proximal metatarsal; postoperative taping. RESULTS: The patients were satisfied following 107 (91%) of 118 consecutive percutaneous procedures with a follow-up of 35.9 months (range 24-78 months). According to the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) hallux metatarsophalangeal-interphalangeal scale for the clinical assessment, a mean score of 88.2 +/- 12.9 was obtained at follow-up. The clinical results can be compared to those obtained with open techniques, with the advantages of a minimally invasive procedure.     

Is Double Metatarsal Osteotomy Superior to Proximal Chevron Osteotomy in Treatment of Hallux Valgus With Increased Distal Metatarsal Articular Angle?

We compared the results of proximal chevron osteotomy and double metatarsal osteotomy for hallux valgus with an increased distal metatarsal articular angle (DMAA). From October 2008 to December 2012, first metatarsal osteotomies were performed in 64 patients (69 feet) with symptomatic hallux valgus associated with an increased DMAA. Proximal chevron with Akin osteotomy and lateral soft tissue release was performed in 46 feet (PCO group); double metatarsal osteotomy and Akin osteotomy without lateral soft tissue release was performed in 23 feet (DMO group). Clinical assessments were performed using the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) scale and visual analog scale (VAS). The hallux valgus angles, intermetatarsal angles, sesamoid positions, metatarsus adductus angles, and DMAAs were compared at different postoperative times. Postoperative shortening of first the metatarsal and complications were compared. The mean AOFAS scale and VAS scores showed significant improvement in both groups after surgery; however, no significant difference was observed between the 2 groups. The immediate postoperative hallux valgus angle and sesamoid position were significantly larger in DMO group; however, no intergroup difference was observed at the last follow-up visit, with the hallux valgus angle gradually increasing in the PCO group. The postoperative DMAA was significantly smaller in the DMO group. The mean shortening of the first metatarsal after surgery was significantly larger in the DMO group than in the PCO group. Transfer metatarsalgia developed in 1 foot (2.2%) in the PCO group and 2 feet (8.7%) in the DMO group. Partial avascular necrosis of the metatarsal head with advanced arthritis of the first metatarsophalangeal joint developed in 1 foot (4.3%) in the DMO group. In conclusion, no differences in the clinical and radiographic results were observed between the 2 groups for hallux valgus deformity with an increased DMAA.     

Distal Chevron Osteotomy with Lateral Soft Tissue Release for Moderate to Severe Hallux Valgus Decided Using Intraoperative Varus Stress Radiographs

The purpose of the present study was to investigate the outcomes of distal chevron osteotomy with lateral soft tissue release for moderate to severe hallux valgus. The patients were selected using criteria that included the degree of lateral soft tissue contracture and metatarsocuneiform joint flexibility. The contracture and flexibility were determined from intraoperative varus stress radiographs. From April 2007 to May 2009, 56 feet in 51 consecutive patients with moderate to severe hallux valgus had undergone distal chevron osteotomy with lateral soft tissue release. This was done when the lateral soft tissue contracture was not so severe that passive correction of the hallux valgus deformity was not possible and when the metatarsocuneiform joint was flexible enough to permit additional correction of the first intermetatarsal angle after lateral soft tissue release. The mean patient age was 45.2 (range 23 to 54) years, and the duration of follow-up was 27.5 (range 24 to 46) months. The mean hallux abductus angle decreased from 33.5° ± 3.1° to 11.6° ± 3.3°, and the first intermetatarsal angle decreased from 16.4° ± 2.7° to 9.7° ± 2.1°. The mean American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society hallux-interphalangeal scores increased from 66.6° ± 10.7° to 92.6° ± 9.4° points, and 46 of the 51 patients (90%) were either very satisfied or satisfied with the outcome. No recurrence of deformity or osteonecrosis of the metatarsal head occurred. When lateral soft tissue contracture is not severe and when the metatarsocuneiform joint is flexible enough, distal chevron osteotomy with lateral soft tissue release can be a useful and effective choice for moderate to severe hallux valgus deformity.     

Avascular necrosis of the hallux metatarsal head

Avascular necrosis of the first metatarsal head is rare. Although idiopathic cases have been reported, AVN of the first metatarsal head is usually iatrogenic following surgical correction of hallux valgus using a distal metatarsal osteotomy with or without lateral soft tissue release. A thorough understanding of the delicate vascular anatomy of the first metatarsal head is essential when surgery is considered. Careful operative technique permits a safe combination of distal osteotomy and lateral soft tissue release. Because the intraosseous blood supply is completely disrupted with distal metatarsal osteotomy, excessive capsular release and saw blade penetration into the lateral capsular vessels must be avoided. Among the thousands of reported distal metatarsal osteotomies performed using a variety of technique modifications of the original procedure described by Austin, the prevalence of AVN is low. Undoubtedly, the first metatarsal head has an excellent capacity to accommodate to changes in its blood supply. Although radiographic changes are frequently observed in the metatarsal head following a distal metatarsal osteotomy with or without lateral release, rarely do these changes progress to symptomatic AVN. These transient radiographic findings probably represent an adjustment period as the metatarsal head recovers from vascular compromise. Not only is AVN of the first metatarsal rare, but it is rare for it to be symptomatic. Many more cases that are never identified may exist. Management of symptomatic AVN of the first metatarsal head has not been standardized because of the infrequency of this condition. Anecdotal experience suggests that simple activity and shoe modifications may suffice; however, joint debridement and metatarsal head decompression may prove beneficial as they have in the management of other joints more commonly afflicted with AVN. Finally, severe head collapse may be salvaged with MTP joint arthrodesis. In the event that a substantial amount of avascular bone must be removed, consideration can be given to bone block distraction arthrodesis to avoid transfer metatarsalgia.     

Distaler Weichteileingriff am Großzehengrundgelenk bei Hallux-valgus-Deformität

Objective

Distal, lateral soft tissue release to restore mediolateral balance of the first metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint in hallux valgus deformity. Incision of the adductor hallucis tendon from the fibular sesamoid, the lateral capsule, the lateral collateral ligament, and the lateral metatarsosesamoid ligament.

Indications

Hallux valgus deformities or recurrent hallux valgus deformities with an incongruent MTP joint.

Contraindications

General medical contraindications to surgical interventions. Painful stiffness of the MTP joint, osteonecrosis, congruent joint. Relative contraindications: connective tissue diseases (Marfan syndrome, Ehler–Danlos syndrome).

Surgical technique

Longitudinal, dorsal incision in the first intermetatarsal web space between the first and second MTP joint. Blunt dissection and identification of the adductor hallucis tendon. Release of the adductor tendon from the fibular sesamoid. Incision of the lateral capsule, the lateral collateral ligament, and the lateral metatarsosesamoid ligament.

Postoperative management

Postoperative management depends on bony correction. In joint-preserving procedures, dressing for 3 weeks in corrected position. Subsequently hallux valgus orthosis at night and a toe spreader for a further 3 months. Passive mobilization of the first MTP joint. Postoperative weight-bearing according to the osteotomy.

Results

A total of 31 patients with isolated hallux valgus deformity underwent surgery with a Chevron and Akin osteotomy and a distal medial and lateral soft tissue balancing. The mean preoperative intermetatarsal (IMA) angle was 12.3° (range 11–15°); the hallux valgus (HV) angle was 28.2° (25–36°). The mean follow-up was 16.4 months (range 12–22 months). The mean postoperative IMA correction ranged between 2 and 7° (mean 5.2°); the mean HV correction was 15.5° (range 9–21°). In all, 29 patients (93?%) were satisfied or very satisfied with the postoperative outcome, while 2 patients (7?%) were not satisfied due to one delayed wound healing and one recurrent hallux valgus deformity. There were no infections, clinical and radiological signs of avascular necrosis of the metatarsal head, overcorrection with hallux varus deformity, or significant stiffness of the first MTP joint.

     

Treatment of hallux valgus with an increased distal metatarsal articular angle: evaluation of double and triple first ray osteotomies

During a 12-year period in which 878 hallux valgus corrections were performed, 18 patients (21 feet) with symptomatic hallux valgus deformity and an increased distal metatarsal articular angle (DMAA) underwent periarticular osteotomies (double or triple first ray osteotomies). They were studied retrospectively at an average follow-up of 33 months. The surgical technique comprised a closing wedge distal first metatarsal osteotomy combined with either a proximal first metatarsal osteotomy or an opening wedge cuneiform osteotomy (double osteotomy). When a phalangeal osteotomy was added, the procedure was termed a "triple osteotomy." The average age of the patients at the time of surgery was 26 years. At final follow-up, the average hallux valgus correction measured 23 degrees and the average 1-2 intermetatarsal angle correction was 9 degrees. The DMAA averaged 23 degrees preoperatively and was corrected to an average of 9 degrees postoperatively. One patient developed a postoperative hallux varus deformity, and one patient developed a malunion, both of which required a second surgery. A hallux valgus deformity with an increased DMAA can be successfully treated with multiple first ray osteotomies that maintain articular congruity of the first metatarsophalangeal joint.     

Distal soft tissue procedure and proximal metatarsal osteotomy in hallux valgus

The results of a distal soft tissue procedure and a proximal metatarsal osteotomy in patients with symptomatic hallux valgus deformity were reviewed. The series consisted of 33 patients (47 feet; mean age of patients, 44 years). The average followup period was 48 months. At followup, 41 feet (29 patients, 85%) were free from pain at the first metatarsophalangeal joint. In six feet (four patients), the pain was improved but persisted. The mean hallux valgus angle was 38 degrees before surgery and 13.8 degrees after surgery. The mean intermetatarsal angle was 17.7 degrees before surgery and 7 degrees after surgery. The postoperative hallux valgus angle and intermetatarsal angle in patients who had pain at the first metatarsophalangeal joint after surgery were greater than those in patients without pain after surgery. This procedure corrects the hallux valgus deformity and relieves the symptoms, but careful attention should be paid to the surgical technique to obtain consistent and satisfactory results.     

Die „Ludloff“-Osteotomie zur Korrektur der Hallux-valgus-Deformität

OBJECTIVE: Correction of a symptomatic hallux valgus deformity. INDICATIONS: A hallux valgus deformity in which the intermetatarsal angle I-II exceeds 15 degrees and the shaft of the first metatarsal is broad enough to allow a rotational osteotomy. CONTRAINDICATIONS: Hypermobility of the first ray. Severe osteoporosis. Degenerative arthritis of the first metatarsophalangeal joint. SURGICAL TECHNIQUE: Longitudinal incision over the first intermetatarsal space. Division of the metatarsosesamoid ligament together with the tendon of the adductor hallucis muscle. Opening of the lateral articular capsule of the first metatarsophalangeal joint allowing a tension-free realignment of the head of the first metatarsal with the sesamoids. Medial longitudinal incision along the first metatarsal starting over the medial cuneiform bone and ending at the proximal phalanx of the great toe. Oblique osteotomy of the proximal two thirds of the first metatarsal in a proximal dorsal to distal plantar direction and lateral rotation of the distal fragment around a proximally placed 3-mm AO screw. Additional fixation with one BOLD screw. Trimming of the protruding bone and of bunion. Medial metatarsophalangeal capsulorraphy. RESULTS: Between September 1998 and October 1999, 76 feet underwent a Ludloff osteotomy. Patients were followed up clinically and radiographically for 36 months (24-56 months). The mean hallux valgus angle was reduced from 37 degrees to 14 degrees and the mean intermetatarsal angle I-II from 18 degrees to 9 degrees. Using a four-point scale 81% of the patients were satisfied or very satisfied with the result of the operation. 95% of them felt no or very mild pain.     

Proximal Metatarsal Osteotomy in Hallux Valgus

In order to obtain an optimal correction of hallux valgus and to prevent its recurrence, the authors have applied a surgical technique which combines a proximal valgus osteotomy of the first metatarsal bone with an excision of the pseudoexostosis and a distal soft tissue plasty at the first metatarsophalangeal joint. The procedure is based on an etiological theory regarding metatarsus primus varus as the primary cause of the deformity, which is in accordance with the opinion of many other authors. The osteotomy corrects the malposition of the first metatarsal bone thereby reducing the deformity and preventing its recurrence. The soft tissue plasty alleviates secondary contractures that prevent a full correction of the big toe. A series of 43 consecutive patients (46 feet) with a follow-up period of 5–44 months and extracted from a total number of 99 operated cases is presented. The result was excellent in 78 per cent, good in 11 per cent and poor in 11 per cent. The reason for a less than excellent result was almost always inadequate correction of the deformity, at the level of the first metatarsal bone, or the big toe, or both.     

Basal medial opening wedge first metatarsal osteotomy stabilized with a low profile wedge plate

Twenty patients underwent 25 basal medial opening wedge osteotomies of the first metatarsal stabilized using a low-profile wedge plate in combination with a distal soft tissue release, distal metatarsal osteotomy and Akin osteotomy as required for correction of a hallux valgus deformity. The mean clinical and radiographic follow-up was 12.2 months. Pre- and post operative radiographs available in 15 cases showed that the median hallux valgus angle (HVA), intermetatarsal angle (IMA) and distal metatarsal articular angle (DMAA) were corrected from 45.5 to 13.1, 17.7 to 9.2 and 243 to 10.0 degrees respectively (p < 0.001). Final radiographic assessment for the whole series showed a median final HVA and IMA of 14.1 and 9.1 respectively. Radiographic union was noted in all but one case which was asymptomatic. One wound infection was treated with oral antibiotics, one hallux varus deformity required soft tissue reconstruction and there was one recurrence. The outcome was reported as good or satisfactory by the patients for 20 of 25 feet. Three patients reported stiffness in the first MTP joint, which improved with joint injection and manipulation. Two plates were removed for prominence. The basal medial opening wedge osteotomy stabilized with a low profile wedge plate was an effective addition for correcting a moderate to severe hallux valgus deformity as part of a double or triple first ray osteotomy.     

Percutaneous distal metatarsal osteotomy for correction of hallux valgus

BACKGROUND: Distal osteotomy of the first metatarsal is indicated for the surgical treatment of mild-to-moderate hallux valgus deformity. The aim of this study was to evaluate the results of a subcapital distal osteotomy of the first metatarsal with use of a percutaneous technique. METHODS: From 1996 to 2001, 118 consecutive percutaneous distal osteotomies of the first metatarsal were performed for the treatment of painful mild-to-moderate hallux valgus in eighty-two patients. The patients were assessed with a clinical and radiographic protocol at a mean of 35.9 months postoperatively. The American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) hallux-metatarsophalangeal-interphalangeal scale was used for the clinical assessment. RESULTS: The patients were satisfied following 107 (91%) of the 118 procedures. The mean score on the AOFAS scale was 88.2 +/- 12.9 points. The postoperative radiographic assessments showed a significant change (p < 0.05), compared with the preoperative values, in the mean hallux valgus angle, first intermetatarsal angle, distal metatarsal articular angle, and sesamoid position. The valgus deformity recurred after three procedures (2.5%), the first metatarsophalangeal joint was stiff but not painful after eight (6.8%), and a deep infection developed after one (0.8%). The infection resolved with antibiotic therapy. CONCLUSIONS: The percutaneous technique proved to be reliable for the correct execution of a distal linear osteotomy of the first metatarsal for the correction of a painful mild-to-moderate hallux valgus deformity. The clinical results appear to be comparable with those obtainable with traditional open techniques, with the additional advantages of a minimally invasive procedure, a substantially shorter operating time, and a reduced risk of complications related to surgical exposure.     

Metatarsal osteotomies for hallux valgus

In the surgical treatment of hallux valgus, proximal, diaphyseal, and distal osteotomies of the first metatarsal bone are commonly used. In an overview article different procedures are described as well as our own stage-adapted concept. Deformities with congruent articulation of the metatarsophalangeal joint are successfully treated with a distal chevron osteotomy. In an incongruent joint a distal soft tissue procedure is required for reduction of the joint. The metatarsus varus displacement is corrected with a proximal osteotomy of the first metatarsal bone. The indications and details of the surgical techniques are described as well as postoperative treatment, results, and possible complications.     

Osteotomien des Mittelfußes beim Hallux valgus

In the surgical treatment of hallux valgus, proximal, diaphyseal, and distal osteotomies of the first metatarsal bone are commonly used. In an overview article different procedures are described as well as our own stage-adapted concept. Deformities with congruent articulation of the metatarsophalangeal joint are successfully treated with a distal chevron osteotomy. In an incongruent joint a distal soft tissue procedure is required for reduction of the joint. The metatarsus varus displacement is corrected with a proximal osteotomy of the first metatarsal bone. The indications and details of the surgical techniques are described as well as postoperative treatment, results, and possible complications.     

A comparison of Keller's arthroplasty and distal metatarsal osteotomy in the treatment of adult hallux valgus

A prospective trial is reported which compares distal osteotomy of the first metatarsal with Keller's arthroplasty in the treatment of adult hallux valgus. A total of 33 patients attended for review at least three years after operation. Symptomatic improvement, as assessed by patient satisfaction, pain relief, cosmetic improvement and restoration of function, was similar in the two groups. Objective measurement showed that the range of movement of the metatarsophalangeal joint was better maintained after osteotomy, as was the relationship of the sesamoid bones to the head of the first metatarsal. Correction of the valgus deformity also was significantly better in the patients who underwent osteotomy and in these patients the first intermetatarsal angle was reduced to within normal limits. There was no evidence that initial degenerative changes or subluxation at the metatarsophalangeal joint compromised a successful result from osteotomy.     

Fehlschl?ge in der Hallux-valgus-Chirurgie

More than 150 corrective procedures for hallux valgus exist and an incorrect choice of procedure leads to insufficient correction. Distal first metatarsal osteotomy cannot correct large deformities and degenerative changes at the metatarsophalangeal joint impede functional recovery. Incongruence of the joint must be corrected during surgery. Recurrence is most often caused by insufficient correction, especially of the first metatarsal bone. Overcorrection is often due to technical problems with the initial metatarsal osteotomy. This also applies to insufficiency of the first ray due to shortening or dorsal angulation. Partial first metatarsal head necrosis occasionally occurs but complete necrosis is rare. Non-union is mostly caused by incorrect osteosynthesis. During postoperative treatment the hallux must be held in the correct position to avoid failure.     

Components of the Wilson Osteotomy That Are Effective on Hallux Valgus Repair

Wilson osteotomy of the first metatarsal is a technically simple and reliable operation for the correction of the hallux valgus (HV) deformity. The major anatomic components of the osteotomy are the osteotomy angle and the distance of the osteotomy to the first metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint. Lateralization of the first metatarsal head is the rationale for correction of the deformity. The main disadvantage of the technique is the considerable shortening of the first metatarsal. The relation between the amount of HV correction, first metatarsal shortening, and the anatomic parameters of the osteotomy was evaluated. Radiographs of 46 feet of 32 patients were retrospectively evaluated after an average follow-up period of 31.4 months. From the preoperative, early postoperative, and last control radiographs, the amount of HV correction, first metatarsal shortening, the osteotomy angle, the distance of the osteotomy to the first MTP joint, and lateralization of the first metatarsal head were measured. The presented study indicated that the osteotomy angle and the lateral displacement of the metatarsal head have a significant correlation with the amount of HV correction. Distance of the osteotomy to the first MTP joint has no relevance with the repair of the deformity. A positive linear correlation was present between the osteotomy angle and the first metatarsal shortening. Because the amount of first metatarsal shortening has significant influence over the clinical result, the main aim in a Wilson osteotomy should be maximum lateral displacement of the metatarsal head with a minimum osteotomy angle.     

Failures of hallux valgus surgery

More than 150 corrective procedures for hallux valgus exist and an incorrect choice of procedure leads to insufficient correction. Distal first metatarsal osteotomy cannot correct large deformities and degenerative changes at the metatarsophalangeal joint impede functional recovery. Incongruence of the joint must be corrected during surgery. Recurrence is most often caused by insufficient correction, especially of the first metatarsal bone. Overcorrection is often due to technical problems with the initial metatarsal osteotomy. This also applies to insufficiency of the first ray due to shortening or dorsal angulation. Partial first metatarsal head necrosis occasionally occurs but complete necrosis is rare. Non-union is mostly caused by incorrect osteosynthesis. During postoperative treatment the hallux must be held in the correct position to avoid failure.