Buried Kirschner wire fixation of the Austin osteotomy-bunionectomy: a preliminary report

Austin bunionectomies were fixated with buried 0.062-inch Kirschner wire. The wires were surgically removed in 7 to 10 weeks, when radiographic union was demonstrated. This approach allows confident early range-of-motion exercises and return to normal footwear. Intermetatarsal angles were reduced 6 to 12 degrees without displacement. The advantages and disadvantages of this technique are discussed.