The Role of Lateral Soft Tissue Release for the Treatment of Hallux Valgus with Distal Chevron Osteotomy

Abstract

Category: Bunion Introduction/Purpose: To define the effect of distal chevron osteotomy with and without lateral soft tissue release for the correction of mild and moderate hallux valgus. Methods: 24 consecutive patients were enrolled in this prospective study. In Group A, 12 patients underwent a chevron osteotomy only. In Group B, 12 patients underwent a chevron osteotomy with lateral soft tissue release. The hallux valgus angle (HVA) and intermetatarsalangle (IMA), and AOFAS score were measured preoperatively, and 6-month follow up postoperatively and complications were evaluated. Results and complications were evaluated. Results: The change in HVA, IMA and AOFAS score were insignificant (p > 0.05) between Group A and Group B. Complications of digital neuritis and cosmetically dissatisfied scarring of the dorsal web space were seen only in Group B. No cases had avascular necrosis of the metatarsal head, malunion or nonunion. Conclusion: Lateral soft tissue release may not be needed for mild or moderate hallux valgus deformities which may prevent neuritis of dorsal or plantar lateral digital nerve and cosmetic dissatisfaction of adorsal scar.