Scarf osteotomy for correction of Tailor's bunion: mid- to long-term followup

The purpose of the study was to evaluate the increased correction possible with a mid shaft rotational osteotomy with the stability and ease of fixation associated with a scarf osteotomy.

Between September 1999 and September 2006, 63 patients underwent operative repair of 77 Tailor's bunion deformities. Twenty eight patients (36 feet) were available for a final review (nine males and 19 females). A further seven patients (nine feet) completed a questionnaire. The mean followup period for the 28 patients reviewed in clinic was 6.5 years, (79.5 months; SD, 22).

Eighty-six percent were completely satisfied, 11.4% were satisfied with reservations and 3% were dissatisfied. Ninety-one percent considered themselves better than before their surgery while 8.6% felt they were no better. Ninety-one percent of patients said they would undergo surgery under the same conditions again. Preoperatively, the mean 4-5 intermetatarsal angle measured on weightbearing X-rays was 9.9 degrees (SD, 2.2), the mean postoperative intermetatarsal angle was 5.7 degrees (SD, 2.0). The mean preoperative AOFAS score was 44.1 (SD, 14.5) and the mean postoperative score at 6-month review was 91.8 (SD, 20.2). The AOFAS score at final review was 88.1 (SD, 11.6).

The rotational scarf osteotomy was a reliable procedure for the correction of Tailor's bunion deformities. The osteotomy allowed for early mobilization and had few associated complications. The rotational scarf osteotomy facilitated correction of the intermetatarsal angle while maintaining excellent sagittal and transverse plane stability.