Application of a NiTi staple in the metatarsal osteotomy.

Thirty-six metatarsal osteotomies using internal fixation of a shape memory metal compression staple for hallux valgus were performed in 21 women with a mean age of 42.3 years (30-66 years). The time for return to light work averaged 19.0 days, and to full work and normal walk 41.2 days after the operation. Twenty patients (35 feet) had complete relief from pain. Only in one foot, the pain was transferred under the second metatarsal head. The appearance of the feet was apparently improved and the width of the forefeet was decreased by a mean of 0.90 cm after the operation. Radiographic analysis of feet showed that all osteotomies united, and the average angle of hallux valgus was improved from 31.2 degrees to 16.3 degrees and the mean intermetatarsal angle from 12.0 degrees to 6.4 degrees. No external fixation of plaster splintage was needed and the distal fragment during healing of the osteotomy was stable. The time of bone healing was shortened and patients were allowed to bear weight at an early time.