Abstract
Aims: Metatarsus osteotomies usually require an internal metal þxation in order to achieve the required stability. Taking the metal out means an operation. This is unpleasant for the patients by all means. Absorbing screws are rather expensive. The authors used an absorbing polydioxanone thread in case of osteotomies. Methods: þxation by absorbing thread has been used in three types of operations: A: chevron osteotomia Hallux valgus/metatarsus primus varus/, B: Weil osteotomia II-III-IV metatarsalgias, C: Assimetricus ÔVñ osteotomia II III-IV metatarsalgias. In all the cases mentioned above a polydioxanone thread has been used. Altogether 62 operations have been carried out, 27 in case of A, 19 in case of B, and 16 in case of C. The patients received full burden 2 weeks after the operation, just like in case of þxation with a metal screw. Follow-up examination was done 1, 3 and 6 months after the operation. Rtg examination was done immediately in postoperative time and following a 3-month interval. Results: during follow-up examination no symptoms revealing the tear of thread have been observed. In the measures of the consolidation of bones no difference between the two methods has been revealed. Conclusions: þxation by absorbing thread is a perfect alternative of that by metal screws. The patients have a positive opinion about not having to undergo another operation. This method does not make the operation more expensive.
Theses abstracts were prepared by Professor Dr. Frantz Langlais. Correspondence should be addressed to him at EFORT Central Office, Freihofstrasse 22, CH-8700 Küsnacht, Switzerland.
