Fixation of an Akin osteotomy with a tension suture: our results

An Akin osteotomy is a closing wedge varus osteotomy of the proximal phalanx, usually performed as part of a hallux valgus correction surgery to complement the metatarsal correction. Numerous fixation techniques have been described; most provide good and stable fixation, but involve permanent and sometimes protruding hardware. A retrospective cohort study has been carried out of 115 feet in 109 patients using a technique with an absorbable suture fixation of the medial cortex of the proximal phalanx while preserving the lateral cortex. All the osteotomies united completely with no loss of position. HV angles and IM angles were within acceptable parameters. In comparison to others methods, the technique presented in this study is technically simple, provides good results, requires no specialized instrumentation, is cost effective and has a very low complication rate.