Introduction: The Scarf osteotomy for the treatment of hallux valgus is achieving popularity, but no comparative study has proven the efficacy of this procedure over other first metatarsal osteotomies. We present a retrospective comparative review of the radiological outcomes of Chevron and Scarf with Akin osteotomy in the treatment of hallux valgus. Materials and Methods: The radiological outcomes of 40 first metatarsal osteotomies, 20 Chevron and 20 Scarf with Akin are presented. The radiological parameters studied included hallux valgus angle, hallux inter-phallangeus, intermetatarsal angle, sesamoid station and foot width. Results: The mean post-operative hallux valgus angles (HVA’s) were: Chevron mean HVA 17.90, standard deviation 7.360, standard error 1.65. Scarf with Akin osteotomy mean HVA 9.550, standard deviation 6.60, standard error 1.4. The difference in postoperative HVA between the two operations was statistically significant (p< 0.001). The mean post-operative intermetatarsal angles (IMA) were: Chevron mean 8.050, standard deviation 2.560, standard error 0.57. Scarf with Akin mean 7.220, standard deviation 2.56, standard error 0.57. The difference in postoperative IMA between the two groups did not achieve statistical significance. The mean change in IMA for each was: Chevron mean increment 4.90 Standard deviation 2.290, standard error 0.51. Scarf with Akin mean increment 6.680, standard deviation 4.130, and standard error 0.88. The difference in alteration of IMA between the two groups did not achieve statistical significance. Discussion and Conclusion: We conclude that as there was no difference in the distribution of post-op IMA for Scarf and Chevron osteotomies that the added affect of an Akin osteotomy may contribute to the Scarf to produce the better correction in hallux valgus angle

Akins original description of his osteotomy did not describe the use of any metal work. Today the osteotomy is most commonly held and fixed with either a staple or screw. We describe the results obtained with a simple suture technique. Methods Data was collected prospectively on 125 patients undergoing an Akin osteotomy. Hallux valgus (HV) and intermetatarsal (IM) angles pre and postoperatively were recorded. Patients were reviewed at 6 week follow up. Cost analysis was also performed comparing different fixation types. 111 of the patients were female and 14 male. The average age at time of surgery was 49 years. 104 cases were in conjunction with hallux valgus correction while 21 cases were for hallux interphalangeus. The mean preoperative HV angle was 33.3 degrees (range 22 to 53), and the IM angle 13.3 degrees (range 9 to 25). At the 6 week follow up all patients had shown signs of radiological union. The postoperative HV angle was 12.4 degrees (range 7 to 17) and the IM angle 6.4 degrees (range 5 to 11). All patients maintained their correction. There were no complications, infections or fixation problems. All patients were satisfied with their surgery and would have it repeated again. The suture technique was the most cost effective method. We describe a quick, easy, implant free method of fixing the Akin osteotomy. There is no need for metalwork removal and in today's world of austerity and the current climate of widespread budget constraints we describe a cost effective method which is clinically just as effective as methods requiring a staple or screw

Background. Patient reported outcomes/experience measures have been a fundamental part of the NHS since 2009. Osteotomy procedures for hallux valgus produce varied outcomes due to their subjective nature. We used PROMS2.0, a semi-automated web-based system, which allows collection and analysis of outcome data, to assess what the patient reported outcome/experience measures for scarf+/− akin osteotomy for hallux valgus are at UHSM. Methods. Prospective PROMS data was collected from November 2012 to February 2015. Scores used to asses outcomes included EQ-5D VAS, EQ-5D Health Index, and MOxFQ, collected pre-operatively and post-operatively. Patient Personal Experience (PPE-15) was collected postoperatively. Results. 40 patients (35F/5M) (19LT +21RT) had undergone an osteotomy. Average age was 60.7 years (Range 29–88). No bilateral procedures. The pre-op average MOXFQ scores for pain, walking and social interaction were: 51.6 (range 5–100), 51.4 (range 0–96) and 48.8 (range 0–100) respectively. Post operatively these improved to 24.4 (range 0–100), 22.9 (range 0–86) and 23.1 (range 0–88). All statistically significant. EQ5D score showed an improvement; with pre-op index average of 0.70. Post-op index average was 0.80. 11 patients were under 54 years old, 15 between 55–64, and 14 over 65. The greatest improvement was in the over 65s for MOxFQ and in the under 55s in EQ5D. 27/35 women showed improvement in all three MOxFQ domains, in contrast to all men. EQ5D also showed similar results. 65 patients filled out a PPE questionnaire. The results show overall average satisfaction of 72.9%. Conclusion. The overall data suggests that scarf+/− akin osteotomy procedures for hallux valgus are a success. Data suggests that higher success rates are found in those over 65 and male patients. Level of Evidence. Prospective case series- Level 3

Minimally invasive chevron and akin osteotomy are being used in a few centres in the UK. The purpose of our study was to analyse our early results and present our early experience of minimally invasive chevron and akin osteotomy (MICA) for the correction of mild to moderate hallux valgus. This study assessed the radiological and clinical measurements, American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) scores, pain scores and patient satisfaction associated with performance of the MICA, for the treatment of hallux valgus. Between September 2010 and April 2012, 96 consecutive patients (122 feet) who underwent MICA were assessed. The overall satisfaction rate was over 90%. The mean total AOFAS score was 89.7 points. VAS for pain reduced from a mean of 7.4 to less than 1 point. On weight bearing anterior-posterior foot radiographs there was a significant improvement in the mean IMA and HVA. Complications included 2 episodes of superficial infection (1.6%), 1 fracture (0.8%), 4 incidence of nerve injury (3.3%) (Numbness) and 9 patients requiring removal of screw (7.4%). However, these screw removals occurred early on in the study and diminished after a slight modification in surgical technique. Based on our findings we concluded that MICA is an effective procedure with good patient satisfaction in the treatment of mild to moderate hallux valgus

Introduction: In most areas of surgery there has been a move in recent years towards less invasive operative techniques. However, minimally invasive surgery (MIS) is not automatically ‘better’ surgery. Several MIS techniques for correcting hallux valgus have been described. We present our experience with an MIS chevron type osteotomy, Akin osteotomy and distal soft tissue release. This technique utilises rigid internal screw fixation (without the need for k wire fixation). This is the first such series to be reported in the United Kingdom. Patients & Methods: A consecutive series of twenty three patients (30 feet) with mild to moderate HV deformity were included in the study and were independently assessed clinically and radiographically and scored using the AOFAS scoring system, visual analogue score for pain and a subjective outcome score. All surgery was performed by a single surgeon (DR) using a high-speed burr to create the osteotomies. The osteotomy was fixed with a rigid screw. The mean age was 59 (24–75), and 90% were female. All patients had minimum follow-up of three months (mean 7.5, range 5–12). Results: The mean AOFAS score improved from 39.3 (median 44, range 25–57) preoperatively to 89.9 (median 92, range 77–100) postoperatively. The mean visual analogue score improved from 7 to 1. 82% of patients were very satisfied / satisfied with the procedure. There were no cases of infection, two cases of type 1 complex regional pain syndrome and two screws required removal. Conclusion: This small series represents the senior author’s learning curve with this new technique and as such, these early MIS results compare well with outcomes reported with modern open techniques for mild to moderate hallux valgus deformities. A randomised study to compare open and closed techniques is now being undertaken

Background. Patient reported outcome and experience measures have been a fundamental part of the NHS. We used PROMS2.0, a semi-automated web-based system, which allows collection and analysis of outcome data, to assess the patient reported outcome/experience measures for scarf+/− akin osteotomy for hallux valgus. Methods. Prospective PROMs/PREMs data was collected. Scores used to asses outcomes included EQ-5D VAS, EQ-5D Health Index, and MOxFQ, collected pre-operatively and post-operatively (Post-op follow-up 6–12months) Patient Personal Experience (PPE-15) was collected postoperatively. Results. 40 patients (35Female/5Male) (19Left +21Right). Average age- 60.7 years (Range 29–88). No bilateral procedures. Pre-op average MOXFQ scores for pain, walking and social interaction: 51.6 (range 5–100), 51.4 (range 0–96) and 48.8 (range 0–100) respectively. Post-operatively improved to 24.4 (range 0–100), 22.9 (range 0–86) and 23.1 (range 0–88). Corresponding P values for all < 0.00001 and statistically significant. 32/40 (80%) patients showed improvement in all three domains. Of 8 who worsened- 6 worse with pain, 4 with walking and 5 with social-interaction. EQ5D improved; pre-op index average- 0.70 and pre-op VAS score average- 79.3. Post-op index average- 0.80. VAS score average- 82.9. Index improvements were significant, P-value < 0.0023 (significant). EQ5D improvements in line with those found in hip/knee replacements. No differences between 6/12m follow-up. Patients stratified according to age-groups for analysis, 11 patients under 54 years old, 15 between 55–64, and 14 over 65. Greatest improvement in over 65s for MOxFQ and under 55s for EQ5D. 27/35 women improved in all MOxFQ domains, whilst 5/5 men did. P-value for age and sex both < 0.05 therefore significant. Age/sex EQ5D showed results of no statistical significance. 65 patients filled post-op PPE questionnaire. Average overall satisfaction of 72.9%. Conclusion. The procedure is very effective with high PROMs/PREMs. Older sub-group have best outcomes and highest satisfaction. Level of evidence. Prospective case series- Level 3

Hallux valgus is a common condition and surgical correction has remained a challenge. Scarf osteotomy with Akin procedure is well accepted method. Akin procedure gives spurious correction of the distal alignment of big toe. This study was performed to see alternative way to get best correction without additional phalangeal procedure. Senior author used innovative Y-V medial capsulorraphy with standard Scarf osteotomy. This technique allows reduction of MP joint along with correction of pronation deformity and reduction of sesamoids. We report the use of a modified Y-V medial capsular repair in association with Scarf osteotomy for Hallux valgux in 45 patients (55 feet) aged 18 to 76 years (mean 43 years) between October 2004 and December 2005. Clinical follow up was both subjective and objective. Patients were asked about rating of their satisfaction and objective assessment was done in form of AOFAS score. Using this technique none of the patients required an additional proximal phalangeal osteotomy with metatarsal osteotomy. At six months follow up American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society score improved from 46 to 87. Intermetatarsal (IM) angle and the hallux valgus (HV) angle improved from 16° to 9° and from 31° to 16° respectively (p< 0.05). At final follow up 8 patients were very satisfied, 12 were satisfied while 5 were not satisfied. Of the 55 procedures 51 did not develop any complications. Two had superficial infections, treated successfully with oral antibiotics only. Two patients had recurrence, one was treated with Akin and second patient declined surgery as she was not bothered with it. We recommend the use of this modified ‘Y-V’ medial capsular repair to reduce the need for an additional procedure to augment the correction achieved during Scarf osteotomy for hallux valgus. This reduces hallux valgus angle and maintains it

Background: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the results after hallux valgus surgery by transar-ticular adductor tenotomy, distal Chevron metatarsal osteotomy and Akin phalangeal osteotomy using medial one incision. Materials and Methods: From June 2004 to June 2007, eighty feet of 54 patients were included in this study. During the same period, other cases of hallux valgus correction were excluded. Thirty seven patients underwent both feet operation at the same time and 17 patients underwent single foot operation. Among the 37 patients who underwent both feet operation, proximal metatarsal osteotomy was performed for contralateral 11 feet at same time, and these cases with proximal metatarsal osteotomy were excluded from this study. Postoperatively, all patients were allowed immediate full weight bearing walking. Patients were evaluated according to the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society(AOFAS) hallux metatarsophalangeal-interpha-langeal scale, VAS(visual analogue scale), post-operative complications and radiologic parameters such as hallux valgus angle, intermetatarsal angle, T-test was used to evaluate the degree of hallux valgus and intermetatarsal angles. The mean follow up period was 25.9 months. Results: At the last follow up, the mean AOFAS hallux metatarsophalangeal-interphalangeal scale increased from 48.7 to 91.9. The Mean VAS score decreased from 7.1 to 0.8 post-operatively. The mean hallux valgus angle of 31.4° (range, 22° to 46°) improved to 5.3 ° (range, 0° to 20°) after the operation. The mean intermetatarsal angle also showed improvement from 12.3° (range, 7° to 16°) to 5.5 ° (range, 2° to 11°). Comparison between preoperative and postoperative hallux valgus and intermetatarsal angles was done by T test in dependent groups, which showed statistical significance (p< 0.05). There were three cases of mild hallux varus and three cases of recurred valgus deormity. No avascular necrosis or union problem was observed on the radiographs in any of the patients. Conclusion: Hallux valgus deformity correction by transarticular adductor tenotomy, distal Chevron metatarsal osteotomy and Akin phalangeal osteotomy using medial one incision has the advantages of lower morbidity and less scar without avascular necrosis of the metatarsal head

Background. There are many different procedures described for the correction of hallux valgus deformity. Minimally invasive surgery has become increasingly popular, with clinical and radiological outcomes comparable to traditional open osteotomy approaches. There is increasing interest in hallux valgus deformity correction using third-generation minimally invasive chevron akin osteotomy (MICA) technique. Objective. To assess the radiographic correction and 2 year clinical outcomes of third-generation MICA using validated outcome measures. Methods. This is a prospective single-surgeon case series of 420 consecutive feet undergoing MICA surgery between July 2014 and November 2018. Primary clinical outcome measures included the Manchester-Oxford Foot Questionnaire (MOXFQ), EQ-5D, and the Visual Analogue Pain Scale. Secondary outcome measures included radiographic parameters, and complication rates. Results. Pre-operative and 2 year post-operative patient reported outcomes were collected for 334 feet (79.5%). At minimum 2 year follow-up, the MOXFQ scores (mean ± standard deviation (SD)) had improved for each domain: pain; pre-operative 43.9±21.0 reduced to 9.1±15.6 post-operatively (p<0.001), walking and standing; pre-operative 38.2±23.6 reduced to 6.5±14.5 post-operatively (p<0.001) and social interaction; pre-operative 47.6±22.1, reduced to 6.5±13.5 post-operatively (p<0.001). At 2 year follow-up, the VAS Pain score (mean ± SD) improved from a pre-operative of 31.3±22.4 to 8.3±16.2 post-operatively (p<0.001). 1–2 intermetatarsal angle (mean ± SD) reduced from 15.4°±3.5° to 5.8°±3.1° (p<0.001) and hallux valgus angle reduced from 33.1°±10.2° to 9.0°±5.0° post-operatively (p<0.001). Conclusion. Third-generation MICA showed significant improvement in clinical outcomes at 2 year follow-up and can be successfully used for correction of a wide range of hallux valgus deformities

Background. Recent large studies of third-generation minimally invasive hallux valgus surgery (MIS) have demonstrated significant improvement in clinical and radiological outcomes. It remains unknown whether these clinical and radiological outcomes are maintained in the medium to long-term. The aim of this study was to investigate the five-year clinical and radiological outcomes following third-generation MIS hallux valgus surgery. Methods. A retrospective observational single surgeon case series of consecutive patients undergoing primary isolated third-generation percutaneous Chevron and Akin osteotomies (PECA) for hallux valgus with a minimum 60 month clinical and radiographic follow up. Primary outcome was radiographic assessment of the hallux valgus angle (HVA) and intermetatarsal angle (IMA) pre-operatively, 6 months and ≥60 months following PECA. Secondary outcomes included the Manchester-Oxford Foot Questionnaire, patient satisfaction, Euroqol-5D Visual Analogue Scale and Visual Analogue Scale for Pain. Results. Between 2012 and 2014, 126 consecutive feet underwent isolated third-generation PECA. The mean follow up was 68.8±7.3 (range 60–88) months. There was a significant improvement in radiographic deformity correction; IMA improved from 13.0±3.0 to 6.0±2.6, (p < 0.001) and HVA improved from 27.5±7.6 to 7.8±5.1. There was a statistically significant but not clinically relevant increase of 1.2±2.6° in the HVA between 6 month and ≥60 month radiographs. There was an increase in IMA of 0.1±1.6º between 6 month and ≥60 month radiographs which was not statistically or clinically significant. MOXFQ Index score at ≥follow up was 10.1±17.0. The radiographic recurrence rate was 2.6% at final follow up. The screw removal rate was 4.0%. Conclusion. Radiological deformity correction following third-generation PECA is maintained at a mean follow up of 68.8 months with a radiographic recurrence rate of 2.6%. Clinical PROMs and patient satisfaction levels are high and comparable to other third-generation studies with shorter duration of follow up

Introduction. Hallux valgus is a common orthopaedic complaint with multiple surgical options. There are many methods available for assessing whether sufficient translation of the first metatarsal can be achieved with a metatarsal translational osteotomy alone. None of the current methods take into account the breadth of the metatarsal. With current PACS technology a radiograph can be zoomed to any size and we postulate that by using the surgeon's thumb (or any suitable digit), as a sizing tool, a safe clinical decision can be made concerning whether a translational metatarsal osteotomy alone will provide sufficient correction. Method. We reviewed the preoperative radiographs (weightbearing AP) of twenty patients who had scarf and akin osteotomies and twenty patients with a deformity too great for scarf and akin osteotomies. The senior author (CC) taught the rule of thumb to one consultant and two registrars (total two registrars and two consultants). The radiographs were blindly randomised and the participants assessed each radiograph and decided whether sufficient translation could be achieved with a translational metatarsal osteotomy alone. The process was repeated three months later. Twenty patients were deemed sufficient for intra-user variability and significance based on a recent JBJS(A) article concerning radiographic measurements post proximal crescentic osteotomy (Shima et al. 2009). Results. Good inter- and intra- user variability was demonstrated and using the rule of thumb is a safe way of determining whether a distal osteotomy alone will provide sufficient correction

Introduction. Hallux valgus deformity is a common potentially painful condition. Over 150 orthopaedic procedures have been described to treat hallux valgus and the indication for surgery is pain intractable to nonoperative management. Methods. A retrospective analysis of the treatment of complex hallux valgus with bifocal metatarsal and Akin osteotomies of the first ray performed by the senior author (CC). 22 patients were treated over a three year period from 2008 to 2011, 24 trifocal osteotomies were undertaken. Hallux valgus angle (HVA), intermetatarsal angle (IMA) and distal metatarsal articular angle (DMAA) were all measured from pre- and postoperative radiographs. The patients were also clinically reviewed. Results. The study group consisted of 21 women and 1 man with a mean age of 53 years. The average time to follow up was 19 months. Four cases had undergone previous surgery. Average HVA correction was 26.9 degrees (p < 0.0001), average IMA correction was 12.65 degrees (p < 0.0001). No patients had postoperative infection and all osteotomies went on to union. All patients reported resolution of pain. Two patients required removal of metalwork and the distal osteotomy angulated slightly in one patient not requiring reoperation. Conclusion. We demonstrate that bifocal metatarsal and akin osteotomies of the first ray are a safe and effective method of correcting complex hallux valgus

Introduction: Hallux valgus is a common foot deformity. A widely used method for correction of mild and moderate hallux valgus is a distal metatarsal (Chevron) osteotomy. The purpose of this study was to assess the results of a percutaneous chevron osteotomy two years after my first communication in Arcachon. Patients and method: The operation is performed by one senior surgeon. The patient is placed in the supine position. The foot is allowed to overhang the end of the table. No tourniquet is used. The procedure is controlled by fluoroscopy. The chevron osteotomy is undertaken with a Shannon burr of 12 mm and a 20 mm for the last case. The axis of translation is determined preoperatively and adapted to the foot: more or less plantar displacement of the metatarsal head, or, more or less shortening of the metatarsal itself. The translation of the head is controlled by a temporary intramedullary K-wire inserted medially. The fixation is with an absorbable k-wire for one part and by screw for the other part. The medial exostosis is not systematically removed. The procedure is completed by an Akin osteotomy in 90%. A lateral release procedure is performed percutaneously. Results: The mean age of the patients was 55 years at time of operation. At the follow-up of 3 months all patients are examined and X-Ray’s taken. The Kitaoka score increased from 45 to 89. The hallux valgus angle decreases from 37° to 10°. The metatarsus varus is 10°. Three patients need a new surgery for a secondary displacement. Our results are comparable to those published for open chevron osteotomy in terms of correction of the HV and intermetatarsal angles

Aim. To assess if immediate post-operative weight bearing has a negative influence on the results of osteotomy plus distal soft tissue repair to correct hallux valgus. Design. The results of a crescentic osteotomy plus distal soft tissue repair with Akin osteotomy added as indicated were assessed in 61 consecutive cases. Thirty five were bilateral. This gives a total of 96 feet. During this time other procedures were also performed for hallux valgus. Results. The mean age of the patients was 54 years [16–79]. Measurements of the angles were done pre-operatively, at six weeks post op and at the time of final follow-up, at least three months post-surgery. Only one case was totally lost to follow-up, although in some cases some of the measurements were lost or could not be retrieved. The mean pre-operative angle between first and second metatarsals was 14.8° and the hallux valgus angle was 29.8°. The average decrease of the intermetatarsal angle at six weeks was 5.9° and at final follow-up 5.5°. The correction of the hallux valgus at six weeks averaged 13.3° and at final follow-up 13°. Repair of an adjacent clawed second toe was done in 25 of the feet. A number of other smaller procedures were also done in a small number of cases. Superficial sepsis was present in two cases, both cleared up on treatment. In three cases it appeared that non-union was developing. In four feet hallux valgus was still present to a significant degree and these were classified as failures. The failures will be analysed and discussed endeavouring to recognise the reasons for failure. Conclusion. Immediate post-surgical weight bearing does not compromise the results of crescentic osteotomy plus distal soft tissue procedure after surgery for hallux valgus. MULTIPLE DISCLOSURES

Objective. Combined metatarso-phalangeal and inter-phalangeal deformity represents about 1% of hallux valgus deformity, and its treatment remains a debated topic, because a single osteotomy does not entirely correct the deformity and double osteotomies are needed. The aim of this study is to review the results of 50 consecutive combined metatarso-phalangeal and inter-phalangeal hallux valgus treated by Akin proximal phalangeal osteotomy and SERI minimally invasive distal metatarsal osteotomy. Material and Methods. Fifty feet in 27 patients, aged between 18 and 75 years (mean 42 years) affected by symptomatic hallux valgus without arthritis were included. Two 1-cm medial incisions were performed at the metatarsal neck and at proximal phalanx. Then SERI osteotomy was performed to correct metatarso-phalangeal deformity and Akin osteotomy was performed to correct interphalangeal deformity. Both osteotomies were fixed with a single K-wire. A gauze bandage of the forefoot was applied and immediate weight-bearing on hindfoot was allowed. K-wire was removed after 4 weeks. All patients were checked at a mean 4 year follow-up. Results. All osteotomies healed. Delayed union of metatarsal osteotomy was observed in 1 foot. Slight stiffness was observed in 2 feet. Mean AOFAS score was 47±15 preoperatively and 91±9 at last follow-up. Radiographic findings revealed a significant improvement (p<0.005) of interphalangeal-angle (pre-op 17.5°, post-op 5.1°), hallux-valgus-angle (pre-op 30.1°, post-op 12.2°), inter-metatarsal-angle (pre-op 13.4°, post-op 7.1°), distal-metatarsal-articular-angle (pre-op 20.1°, post-op 8.2°). Conclusions. The combined SERI-Akin double osteotomy was an useful procedure for correction of complex hallux valgus deformity. Clinical and radiographic findings showed an adequate correction of all parameters of the deformity

Introduction: Many mini compression screws are now available for fixation in procedures such as metatarsal osteotomies or arthrodeses of the foot. The aim of the current study is to compare the compression forces achieved by mini compression screws on cortical and cancellous bone models. Material and Methods: The screws that were tested are listed in the table below. The compression forces were tested by inserting a pressures load measurement cell between longitudinally-split sheep tibia as a cortical bone model and longitudinally split retrieved femoral heads as a cancellous bone model. Results: The Headed AO 3.5 mm cortical screw gave the best compression force and the Bold was the weakest, both in cortical and cancellous bone. The relative compression forces of the other tested screws were different between cortical and cancellous bone. Compression with the headless screws was lost as soon as the screw penetrated through the cortex in the cortrical bone model. Conclusions: The indications for using headless self-tapping screws should be reserved for fixation of cancellous bone or of metatarsal or Akin osteotomies where compression is not required for union. When compression is important, such as in MPJ, tarso-metatarsal or talonavicular arthrodeses, Headed AO 3.5 mm or 2.7 mm cortical or 4 mm cancellous screws, which give better compression, should be used

Hallux Valgus (HV) surgery is the most common surgery performed in the foot. The Cochrane review done in 2004 showed that no osteotomy is superior to another, however, surgery was shown to be superior to conservative or no treatment for Hallux Valgus deformity. We performed a postal survey in August 2005, to determine the most common procedures performed for HV deformity, type of anaesthesia used, and the length of stay for Hallux Valgus surgery across the United Kingdom. A list of foot and ankle surgeons was obtained from the BOFAS register and a questionnaire was sent. We received 122 (61%) responses from 200 questionnaires sent. Out of which 4 had retired and 118 were available for analysis. The table below demonstrates the common procedures performed by those who replied. Eight-eight percent of the surgeons used foot block along with GA, 9% used GA only and 3% performed the surgery under regional anaesthesia only. Forty percent of surgeons performed the surgery on an overnight stay basis and 30% performed the surgery as a day case. Twenty-five percent of surgeons mentioned that they performed unilateral surgery as a day case and bilateral surgery on an overnight stay basis. Less than 5% kept the patients for more than 2 days. From the responses, most surgeons in the United Kingdom perform Scarf osteotomy with or without Akin osteotomy for Hallux Valgus correction. The majority performed it on an overnight stay basis or as a day case. Most commonly, foot block along with NSAID’s were used for post-operative pain relief

Introduction. We describe our experience with a minimally invasive Chevron and Akin (MICA) technique for hallux valgus correction. This technique adheres to the same principles as open surgical correction but is performed using a specialized high-speed cutting burr under image intensifier guidance via tiny skin portals. Methods. All patients undergoing minimally invasive hallux valgus correction between November 2009 and April 2010 were included in this study and were subject to prospective clinical and radiological review. Patients were scored using the Kitaoka score as well as radiological review and patient satisfaction survey. Surgery was performed under general anaesthetic and included distal soft tissue release, Chevron and Akin osteotomies, with the same indications as for open surgery. All osteotomies were internally fixed with cannulated compression screws. Results. 83 operations were performed on 70 patients (2 male 65 female, mean age 54 years (27-78)). The pre-operative mean HVA was 34° and IMA 14°. Post-operative mean HVA was 9° and IMA 9.5°. Kitaoka score improved significantly at 3-12 months follow-up. There were no delayed or non- s and no osteonecrosis. Six M1 osteotomies moved during the postoperative period (3 feet (2 patients) required further surgery + 3 incomplete corrections without need for further surgery) and the fixation technique was successfully modified to avoid this problem. Mild transfer metatarsalgia was observed in 4 patients. There were 2 superficial wound infections. Cutaneous nerve injuries were noted in 3 feet but none painful. No recurrent deformities observed to date. Overall, 65% patients very satisfied, 29% satisfied, 6% unsatisfied. Discussion. This study suggests that good results can be obtained in forefoot surgery with the MICA technique. We believe this technique may offer advantages for some patients in terms of reduced morbidity and cosmesis. A randomized study is in progress to compare open and minimally invasive techniques

Introduction: Many mini compression screws are now available for fixation in procedures such as metatarsal osteotomies or arthrodeses of the foot. The aim of the current study is to compare the compression forces achieved by the relatively new commercial mini compression screws on cortical and cancellous bone models. Material and Methods: The screws that were tested are listed in the table below. All screws apart from the AO screws are headless and cannulated; and all screws apart from the AO cortical screw are self-tapping. The compression forces were tested by inserting a pressures load measurement cell between longitudinally-split sheep tibia as a cortical bone model and longitudinally split retrieved femoral heads as a cancellous bone model. The screws were inserted across the 2 halves with gradual compression after allowing the reading of the cell to settle. Results: The Headed AO 3.5 mm cortical screw gave the best compression force, both in cortical and cancellous bone and the Bold was the weakest both in cortical and cancellous bone. The relative compression forces of the other tested screws were different between cortical and cancellous bone. Compression with the headless screws was lost as soon as the screw penetrated through the cortex in the cortrical bone model. Conclusions: The indications for using headless self-tapping screws should be reserved for fixation of cancellous bone or of metatarsal or Akin osteotomies where compression is not required for union. When compression is important, such as in MPJ, tarso-metatarsal or talo-navicular arthrodeses, Headed AO 3.5 mm or 2.7 mm cortical or 4 mm cancellous screws, which give better compression, should be used

Purpose of the study: Minimally invasive techniques are gaining popularity. We report our experience with the treatment of hallux valgus using a hybrid technique combining wedge osteotomy of M1 and other procedures (arthrolysis, phalangeal osteotomy) performed percutaneously. Material and methods: This was a prospective consecutive series of 172 operated feet in 139 patients, mean age 2005 to 2007. All procedures were performed by the same operator and reviwed by an independent observer at mean maximum follow-up of 18 months. The same operative technique was used; the only variable was Akin osteotomy performed (in 67%) or not, fixed (one out of three) or not. Assessment compared pre and postoperative values for the angles M1M2, M1P1, DMAA and DM2AA, joint range of motion, Kitaoka score and morbidity. Results: At maximum follow-up, the independent observer noted: 40.6% and 71% improvement in M1M2 and M1P1 angles, 42.3% in DMAA and 122% in DM2AA, 32.3% in the P1P2 angle, and 71.8% in the Kitaoka score. Dorsiflexion was diminished 4.2%, plantar flexion 19.6%. Material was removed in 7%, and complication rate was 2.9%; there were no deep infections. The procedure was achieved in an outpatient setting from 57% of patients. Excepting one patient who was disappointed, all other patients were satisfied or very satisfied with their operation. Discussion: Wedge osteotomy is an attractive first-intention procedure for the treatment of moderate hallux valgus. It is even more so when combined with the academic percutaneous surgery imported in France by GRECMIP indicated in a still limited number of situations. All parameters are significantly improved with a perfectly controlled morbidity. The absence of deep infection despite (or thanks to) refection 15 days after the first dressing is particularly noteworthy. This method has the approval of nearly 100% of patients and presents many advantages: absence of pain related to unwonted mobilization during wound care, maximal protection of the operated foot in the dressing which is humid at first then hardens forming a shock absorber without extra cost for the postoperative care. Conclusion: We validate this concept which constitutes a fundamental progress in forefoot surgery, particularly in phase with the current concern for cost containment