Scarf osteotomy in severe hallux valgus deformity

Abstract

Context Hallux valgus is one of the most common forefoot deformities. Multiple operative techniques are described for the correction of this deformity. Diaphyseal osteotomies like scarf osteotomy proved to improve from moderate to severe degrees. Aims The aim of this study was to evaluate the results of scarf osteotomy over a minimum 1-year follow-up for patients with severe hallux valgus. Settings and design A case series study held at Alexandria University, El-Hadra University Hospital. Patients and methods Forty-one osteotomies in 37 patients were done from February 2012 to October 2014. The mean follow-up was 14 months (12–18 months). The mean intermetatarsal angle was 20.4°. The mean hallux valgus angle was 43.5°. The patients were evaluated using the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society score. Results The average follow-up was 1 year. All cases achieved radiological union at an average of 2.5 months. The mean AOFAS score improved from 58 to 95 points. The mean intermetatarsal angle improved from 20.4° to 12.1°. Two patients reported postoperative stiffness of the metatarsophalangeal joint. There were no cases of pseudarthrosis or osteonecrosis of the metatarsal head. Conclusion Scarf osteotomy for moderate to severe degrees of hallux valgus had very good results over 1 year follow-up with a low complication rate.