Traumatic Hallux Varus: Operative Technique Guide

Abstract

Traumatic hallux varus, although rare in occurrence, requires thoughtful clinical attention due to its disabling nature and the natural progression of this deformity. Although there is abundant literature on capsuloligamentous injuries, the traumatic hallux varus variant of this injury type currently exists solely as isolated case reports. Because of its infrequent presentation and limited research on the pathology, there exists a paucity in management options and surgical techniques. Conventional treatment methods listed in management of traumatic hallux varus are limited to tenodesis of the adductor tendon using suture imbrication of the capsuloligamentous complex, extensor split tenodesis, and soft tissue anchors. These come with various limitations, including the inability to identify the adductor tendon and restore its length to successfully perform a primary repair. In the present techniques report, a novel method for treatment of both subacute and chronic traumatic hallux varus is described that allows the surgeon to best restore the lateral capsuloligamentous complex anatomy via dual lateral capsuloligamentous reconstruction with a medial percutaneous soft tissue release. Level of Evidence: Diagnostic Level V. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.