Rigid Internal Fixation of Proximal Crescentic Metatarsal Osteotomy in Hallux Valgus Correction

Abstract

Category: Bunion Introduction/Purpose: Proximal first metatarsal crescentic osteotomies are an effective means for correction of moderate to severe hallux valgus deformities. The originally described fixation construct included an intramedullary screw and a Kirschner wire which crossed the joint and required removal at 6 weeks. Elevation malunion of the first ray was also frequently noted postoperatively. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the outcomes of utilizing a low-profile titanium plate and screw construct for rigid fixation of proximal crescentic osteotomies. Methods: There were 53 patients (60 feet, 7 bilateral) with hallux valgus deformities enrolled in the study. They were all treated operatively with a proximal crescentic osteotomy and distal soft tissue correction with or without an Akin osteotomy. The crescentic osteotomy was fixed with a low-profile titanium plate and screws. Postoperatively patients were assessed at 3 months, 6 months and 1 year. Outcomes assessed included the need for hardware removal, change in elevatus of the first ray, as well as pre- and post-op VAS pain scores, radiographic evaluation, AOFAS score, MTP joint range of motion, and complications. Results: Of the 60 hallux valgus cases enrolled, 56 have completed their final follow-up (93%). At 1 year 55/56 patients had achieved radiographic union of their osteotomy. Nine patients had their hardware removed (16%). Range of motion at the 1st MTP joint decreased from 76.5 to 59.6 degrees. Hallux valgus angle improved from a mean of 28.8 to 9.6 degrees. The mean 1-2 intermetatarsal angle decreased from 14.1 to 6.4 degrees. Elevatus of the first ray increased from a mean of 2.5 mm pre-op to 3.2 mm (<1 mm) post-op. Mean VAS score improved from 4.43 to 0.68 (3.75 points). AOFAS score improved from 54.7 to 88.5 points. Complications included 4 superficial infections, 2 delayed wound healing cases and one DVT. Conclusion: Proximal crescentic metatarsal osteotomy with distal soft tissue repair is a safe and reliable method for operative treatment of hallux valgus. Utilization of a low-profile titanium plate and screw construct to rigidly fix the osteotomy yields a high rate of union and deformity correction with a low incidence of hardware removal and minimal increase in elevation of the first ray at final follow up.