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The Weil osteotomy: a seven-year follow-up
S G Hofstaetter1, J G Hofstaetter, J A Petroutsas
1Foot Centre, Alserstrasse 43/8d, 1080 Vienna, Austria. stefanhofstaetter@gmx.at
The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery. British Volume
|November 2, 2005
Summary
The Weil osteotomy effectively treats metatarsalgia, showing good to excellent results in 84% of patients at one year and 88% at seven years. This surgical procedure improves pain and walking capacity while maintaining joint stability.
Area of Science:
- Orthopaedic surgery
- Foot and ankle procedures
Background:
- Metatarsalgia with subluxed or dislocated metatarsophalangeal joints presents a significant clinical challenge.
- Current treatment options may have limitations in long-term efficacy and patient outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To prospectively evaluate the one- and seven-year outcomes of the Weil osteotomy for metatarsalgia.
- To assess the procedure's impact on pain, function, and joint stability.
Main Methods:
- Prospective evaluation of 25 feet in 24 patients undergoing Weil osteotomy.
- Assessment of American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) scores and patient-reported outcomes at one and seven years.
Main Results:
- Good to excellent results were achieved in 84% of feet at one year and 88% at seven years.
- Significant improvement in AOFAS scores from 48 pre-operatively to 75 at one year and 83 at seven years.
- Reduction in pain, plantar callus, and increased walking capacity; redislocation occurred in 8% at one year and 12% at seven years.
Conclusions:
- The Weil osteotomy is a safe and effective treatment for metatarsalgia with subluxed or dislocated metatarsophalangeal joints.
- While complications like floating toes can occur, the procedure offers sustained functional improvement and pain relief.