Acute traumatic hallux valgus

Post-traumatic hallux valgus is an uncommon condition with sporadic reports. The deformity usually develops in a gradual manner following direct injury to the first ray; including injury to the first metatarsophalangeal joint, the first metatarsal bone or the first metatarsal-cuneiform joint. A case of acute traumatic hallux valgus following metatarsal neck fractures of the lesser rays is reported. We believe that understanding the importance of the transverse 'tie-bar' system in the pathogenesis of post-traumatic hallux valgus deformity avoids unnecessary surgery to the great toe.