Scarf and Weil Metatarsal Osteotomies of the Lateral Rays for Correction of Rheumatoid Forefoot Deformities: A Systematic Review

Scarf osteotomy of the first ray combined with Weil distal oblique shortening osteotomies of the lateral rays has recently been proposed for the treatment of global rheumatoid forefoot deformities because of the perceived benefit of sparing the metatarsal-phalangeal joints. Furthermore, it has been proposed that undergoing this form of global forefoot reconstruction is reliable based on specific preoperative and intraoperative techniques used to realign the individual rays. Finally, it has been proposed that performing global forefoot reconstruction in the rheumatoid patient population can be safely performed and does not prevent the ability to perform revision surgery. The author undertook a systematic review of electronic databases and other relevant sources to identify material relating to Scarf osteotomy of the first ray combined with Weil distal oblique shortening osteotomies of the lateral rays for the treatment of global rheumatoid forefoot deformities. Information from peer-reviewed journals, as well as from non–peer-reviewed publications, abstracts and posters, textbooks, and unpublished works, was also considered. In an effort to procure the highest quality studies available, studies were eligible for inclusion only if they involved patients undergoing Scarf osteotomy of the first ray combined with Weil distal oblique shortening osteotomies of the lateral rays, evaluated patients at mean follow-up of 12-months or longer duration, commented on the reliability of metatarsal realignment, and included details of complications, as well as the incidence and severity of wound-healing complications. Two studies were identified that met the inclusion criteria involving only 8 patients (8 feet) with 1 patient undergoing surgical revision in the form of arthrodesis secondary to development of a septic first metatarsal–phalangeal joint. Partial incision dehiscence developed in 2 patients, 1 healed with local wound care and the other led to the septic first metatarsal–phalangeal joint mentioned previously. Finally, stress fracture of the third metatarsal and fourth metatarsals developed that healed without problems in one other patient. Rather than providing strong evidence for or against the use of Scarf osteotomy of the first ray combined with Weil distal oblique shortening osteotomies of the lateral rays for the treatment of global rheumatoid forefoot deformities, the results of this systematic review make clear the need for methodologically sound prospective cohort studies and randomized controlled trials that focus on the use of this form of surgical intervention.