The Ludloff osteotomy: a review of current concepts

The Ludloff osteotomy is a technique option to address hallux valgus in patients with a moderately to significantly increased first-second intermetatarsal angle. The Ludloff osteotomy is an oblique osteotomy of the first metatarsal extending dorsal-proximal to plantar-distal when viewed in the sagittal plane. The dorsal-proximal portion of the metatarsal is cut with the saw while maintaining the plantar-distal surface intact. A screw is inserted across the proximal aspect of the osteotomy, then the osteotomy is extended across the plantar surface distally. The metatarsal is rotated around the axis of the screw to the desired correction. In order to perform the osteotomy correctly, the surgeon must not only effectively complete the nuances of the technique, but also understand the limitations and contraindications of the Ludloff osteotomy. This review of current concepts for the Ludloff osteotomy reviews recent literature as well as technique pearls and pitfalls in the application of this powerful osteotomy.