Percutaneous Chevron Osteotomy Combined with Adductor Tendon Release for Hallux Valgus Correction

CATEGORY: Bunion, Midfoot/Forefoot INTRODUCTION/PURPOSE: The use of minimally invasive techniques for hallux valgus may provide complete deformity correction with minor soft tissue damage, which reduces morbidity and shortens recovery. In this way, some open osteotomies were adapted to percutaneous approaches, with good outcomes reported. The minimally invasive chevron-Akin (MICA) described by Vernois and Redfern in 2011, combines benefits of percutaneous approaches with a stable internal fixation. Since 2015 we have adapted this technique, by adding a percutaneous adductor tenotomy to dispense with the Akin osteotomy. The aim of this study was to report a single surgeon series of consecutive patients with moderate hallux valgus managed with a minimally invasive chevron osteotomy and a percutaneous adductor tendon release. METHODS: This was a prospective cohort study. A total of 38 feet with moderate hallux valgus underwent the procedure and were followed up for a minimum 12 months (SD 1.10). The median age was 58 years (IQR 52 - 65), 36 women and 2 men. Radiological parameters were compared at preoperatory and at the last follow-up and included: Hallux Valgus Angle (HVA), Inter- Metatarsal Angle (IMA), Distal Metatarsal Articular Angle (DMAA) and first metatarsal shortening. Time to consolidation was also assessed. For clinical evaluation the American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society score (AOFAS) was evaluated. Complications during the follow up were reported. Patients in which another procedure in the hallux was performed, with previous surgeries or not completed 1 year follow-up were excluded. RESULTS: Radiologic postoperative parameters demonstrated to achieved correction. At the last follow up there was a statistically significant decrease in the hallux valgus angle, the intermetatarsal angle and distal metatarsal articular angle. Shortening of the first metatarsus was a mean 7.02 mm (IQR 1.24 - 10,27). The mean AOFAS score increased from 58.23 (SD 9.02) pre-operatively to 97.15 (SD 4.72) post-operatively (p< 0.001). Complications reported were 2 superficial infections, 1 broken screw, 1 screw extraction. Five patients referred metatarsalgia after surgery and 1 presented a fourth metatarsal stress fracture. Only one patient presented lost of correction in the first postoperative week and needed a second surgery. CONCLUSION: Our series of hallux valgus correction with a minimally invasive chevron osteotomy combined with the adductor tendon release shows good clinical and radiological outcomes, and results are comparable to series with the additional Akin osteotomy. Comparative studies are needed for major evidence.