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Updated: Jun 23, 2026
An Anatomical Study of Nerves at Risk During Minimally Invasive Hallux Valgus Surgery
Published on: February 17, 2018
Outcome of the scarf osteotomy in adolescent hallux valgus
H L George1, J Casaletto, P N Unnikrishnan
1Department of Orthopaedics, Alder Hey Children's Hospital, Liverpool, L12 2AP, UK.
Purpose:
We have reported the radiological and clinical outcome of scarf osteotomy in the treatment of moderate to severe hallux valgus among adolescent children.
Method:
Data were collected retrospectively between April 2001 and June 2006. The pre- and post-operative intermetatarsal angle (IMA), hallux valgus angle (HVA) and distal metatarsal articular angle (DMAA) were determined. Patients were followed up for a mean of 37.6 months.
Results:
Thirteen patients with 19 operated feet were available at the time of the latest follow-up. There was significant improvement in the mean post-operative IMA, which was maintained to the last follow-up. There was statistically significant improvement in the 6-week post-operative HVA and DMAA. However, this was lost at the final follow-up. The mean American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society score for the whole group was 80 (54-100).
Conclusion:
This study indicates that scarf osteotomy should be used with caution in symptomatic adolescent hallux valgus, as there is a high recurrence rate.