Surgical correction of hallux valgus.

Surgical treatment of hallux valgus was carried out by a procedure which comprises lengthening of extensor tendons, interposition of a capsular flap, and attachment of the periosteocapsular cover with distributed tension in addition to the routine excision of a sufficiently large portion of the first phalanx and metatarsal head. Impairment of function and persistent pain were considered more important in the indication for operation of hallux valgus than the cosmetic demands. Of 142 patients operated upon, 117 patients displayed a satisfactory result applying morphologic and functional criteria.