Chevron osteotomy of the first metatarsal for hallux valgus

A retrospective study of 50 chevron osteotomies evaluated subjective and objective functional and cosmetic results, which were in keeping with other reported studies--i.e. satisfactory subjective cosmesis in 98%; excellent or good pain relief in 84%; and satisfactory objective cosmesis in 84%. The correction of the 1st intermetatarsal angle averaged 3.3 degrees, and that of the metatarsophalangeal valgus averaged 15 degrees. Average active range of motion of the 1st metatarsophalangeal joint was 60 degrees. Complications were generally mild and asymptomatic, and were usually iatrogenic. The findings of this study, together with information gained from a concomitant stress analysis, led to recommendations regarding operative technique.