Screw Versus Plate Fixation for Chevron Osteotomy: A Retrospective Study

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Foot and Ankle Surgery

Background:

• Chevron osteotomy is a common procedure for hallux abducto valgus.
• Traditional fixation with screws or wires can be insufficient in osteoporotic or cystic bone, leading to fragment displacement.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of a locking plate and interfragmental screw fixation for chevron osteotomy.
• To compare healing time and capital fragment displacement rates with traditional screw fixation.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective cohort study of 75 feet undergoing chevron osteotomy.
• Comparison of fixation methods: 1 screw (30 feet), 2 screws (30 feet), and locking plate with interfragmental screw (15 feet).
• Follow-up until bone healing, with analysis of healing intervals and displacement incidence.

Main Results:

• Mean healing times: 7.71 weeks (1-screw), 7.27 weeks (2-screw), and 7.01 weeks (locking plate/screw).
• One displacement case in the 1-screw group and one in the 2-screw group.
• No capital fragment displacement observed in the locking plate and interfragmental screw group.

Conclusions:

• The locking plate and interfragmental screw fixation demonstrated comparable healing times to traditional methods.
• This technique shows potential for reduced displacement, particularly in patients with compromised bone quality.
• Further investigation may confirm its benefit in osteoporotic or cystic bone for hallux abducto valgus correction.