Rigid compression screw fixation of first proximal phalanx osteotomy for hallux abducto valgus.

Various external and internal immobilization techniques have been employed when performing a medial closing wedge osteotomy at the first proximal phalangeal base for the correction of hallux abducto valgus. Internally, the techniques used such materials as absorbable and nonabsorbable suture, monofilament stainless steel wire, osteoclasps, ministaples, and Kirschner wires. In this study, we have employed the A.O.3 technique of rigid compression screw fixation across the osteotomy site. Three different types of screws were utilized; 3.5-mm. and 4-mm. Bechtol screws and 2.7-mm. cortical bone screw, all of which were 3 cm. in length. Eight procedures were performed for six patients. The authors found the benefits afforded by rigid fixation according to the A.O. technique with respect to the production of postoperative callus at the osteotomy site to be superior in comparison to other modalities of fixation.