Hallux valgus correction using transarticular lateral release with distal chevron osteotomy.

BACKGROUND: Transarticular lateral release through a medial incision can avoid a dorsal incision. This study investigated outcomes following hallux valgus correction using transarticular lateral release, distal chevron metatarsal osteotomy and Akin phalangeal osteotomy through one medial incision.
METHODS: Between June 2004 and May 2009, a single surgeon performed a transarticular lateral release, distal chevron metatarsal osteotomy and Akin phalangeal osteotomy through one medial incision for hallux valgus on a total of 103 feet of 68 patients. The average patient age at the time of surgery was 51 years, and the average followup was 27 months.
RESULTS: The average preoperative and final followup results were: 1) hallux valgus angle improvement from 29 degrees to 5 degrees, 2) intermetatarsal angle from 13 degrees to 5 degrees and 3) medial sesamoid bone position from 3 to 1 (p < 0.05 for each variable). The average AOFAS scores were improved from 49 to 92, and the VAS pain scores were improved from 7 to 1 (p < 0.05 for both variables). No patient had a serious complication such as infection, avascular necrosis, nonunion, transfer-metatarsalgia, or first metatarsophalangeal joint arthritis.
CONCLUSION: Hallux valgus correction using transarticular lateral release, distal chevron metatarsal osteotomy and Akin phalangeal osteotomy through one medial incision was found to be effective and safe. The advantages include that the procedure is simple, early ambulation is possible, and there is no dorsal scarring.