Distal Metatarsal Osteotomy for Moderate to Severe Hallux Valgus

Abstract

Hallux valgus is the most common disorder of the hallux and often results in pain, functional disability, and impaired gait patterns. The goals of surgical management are to correct the deformity while improving patients’ pain and function. Traditional treatment of moderate to severe hallux valgus deformities consist of proximal osteotomy and/or arthrodesis given their powerful corrective ability. Despite their corrective power, proximal osteotomies are more technically demanding, have a higher rate of complications, and require a more restricted post-operative recovery. We present an alternative technique for the treatment of moderate to severe hallux valgus. With this operation, a single distal medial incision is utilized to create a chevron osteotomy and lateral release. This procedure can achieve and maintain the desired correction and outcome without the need for a protracted recovery period. Level of Evidence: Level V, expert opinion.