Effect of Mini-invasive Floating Metatarsal Osteotomy on Plantar Pressure in Patients With Diabetic Plantar Metatarsal Head Ulcers

Abstract

Background: Distal metatarsal osteotomy has been used to alleviate plantar pressure caused by anatomic deformities. This study’s purpose was to examine the effect of minimally invasive floating metatarsal osteotomy on plantar pressure in patients with diabetic metatarsal head ulcers. Methods: We performed a retrospective case series of prospectively collected data on 32 patients with diabetes complicated by plantar metatarsal head ulcers without ischemia. Peak plantar pressure and pressure time integrals were examined using the Tekscan MatScan prior to surgery and 6 months following minimally invasive floating metatarsal osteotomy. Patients were followed for complications for at least 1 year. Results: Peak plantar pressure at the level of the osteotomized metatarsal head decreased from 338.1 to 225.4 kPa (P