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Chevron osteotomy fixed with absorbable polyglycolide pins
E Hirvensalo1, O Böstman, P Törmälä
1Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Helsinki University Central Hospital, Finland.
Foot & Ankle
|February 1, 1991
Summary
Biodegradable pins for hallux valgus surgery show promising results, with 75% of patients reporting excellent or good outcomes. This technique for chevron osteotomy avoids implant removal, simplifying recovery for hallux valgus patients.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Biomaterials Science
Background:
- Hallux valgus is a common foot deformity causing pain and functional limitation.
- Traditional surgical fixation often requires hardware removal, necessitating a second procedure.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy and outcomes of chevron osteotomies fixed with biodegradable self-reinforced polyglycolide pins for hallux valgus correction.
- To assess the incidence of recurrence, persistent pain, and first metatarsal shortening.
Main Methods:
- Seventy-eight chevron osteotomies were performed in 60 patients with painful hallux valgus.
- Internal fixation was achieved using 2 mm self-reinforced polyglycolide pins.
- Follow-up averaged 14 months, assessing radiographic and clinical outcomes.
Main Results:
- No postoperative redisplacement or healing complications were observed.
- Recurrence of hallux valgus occurred in 10% of cases, primarily in those with initially severe deformities.
- 15% of patients experienced residual pain during physical activity.
- A mean first metatarsal shortening of 2.5 mm was noted, with significant shortening correlating with forefoot pain.
- No decrease in metatarsophalangeal joint motion was observed.
- 75% of patients reported excellent or good subjective outcomes.
Conclusions:
- Chevron osteotomy with biodegradable polyglycolide pin fixation is an effective treatment for hallux valgus.
- The biodegradable nature of the pins eliminates the need for secondary removal procedures.
- While generally successful, careful patient selection is advised due to recurrence in severe cases and potential for metatarsal shortening-related pain.