[Austin Procedure for the Treatment of Hallux Valgus Part II: Results.]

The results of Austin's procedure are evaluated in the group of 22 patients, who have been operated on bilaterally. The patients were followed up on average for 30 months (range 6-72 months). Subjective findings: Nineteen patients were quite satisfied with the results of the procedure, 2 patients had some minor problems, 1 patient with avascular necrosis of the metatarsal head was not satisfied. Disability after this operation was on average 11 weeks (range 6-21 weeks). Objective findings: An average correction of the intermetatarsal angle was 5 dg. (from 10 dg. before operation to 5 dg. after operation). An average valgus deformity before operation was 30 dg., after operation 11 dg., i. e. the average correction was 19 dg. Shortening of the I. metatarsal was 3 mm.

There was 1 case of avascular necrosis of the Ist metatarsal head, related to bad indication in hallux rigidus. Four patients had lateral displacement of the metatarsal head with the subsequent rotation into valgus deformity. In five patients the shortening of Ist metatarsal was more than 6 mm. In one patient hallux varus developed unilaterally 2 years after operation. Analysis of our results showed clearly that correct indication and operative technique are necessary for good results. Austins procedure appears to correct also severe hallux valgus deformities i.e. more than 30 dg. Key words: hallux valgus - osteotomy of metatarsal head - Austin procedure - results.