Minimally invasive hallux valgus correction, perspective 2

Abstract

Hallux valgus is a common disorder of the forefoot, with deviation of the great toe (hallux) toward the midline of the foot and prominence of the head of the first metatarsal, the medial eminence. The etiology is poorly understood, and it is caused both by intrinsic and extrinsic factors. Pain, bursitis of the medial eminence of the first ray, metatarsalgia, and limitations in everyday living activities are indications for surgery. Many surgical procedures have been described in the past decades to reduce the deformity, and minimally invasive procedures have been also developed to reduce risks of open surgery. The general indications to perform a minimally invasive hallux valgus correction are mild and moderate deformities (intermetatarsal angle less than 20°). In this chapter, a minimally invasive distal osteotomy of the first metatarsal for hallux valgus correction is described. The benefits and risks of this procedure are also discussed.