[Proximal corrective osteotomy : Correction of hallux valgus deformity]

Severe symptomatic hallux valgus deformities are usually not treatable with conservative methods in the long-term. Surgical treatment currently aims for mechanical restitution of the first ray with preserved mobility of the first metatarsophalangeal (MTP 1) joint and with low risk of recurrence after surgery. Keeping these aims in mind the surgical methods consist of osteotomy at the proximal part of the first metatarsal bone with a high potential for correction of the deformity. Surgical interventions at the midshaft level of the first metatarsal are only useful if the anatomical shape of the metatarsal shows a wide shaft, which allows a large shift in the osteotomy. In all other cases of severe hallux valgus deformity two different surgical principles are currently used and recommended: 1. proximal or basal osteotomy of the first metatarsal bone in all cases with a preserved MTP 1 and tarsometatarsal (TMT-1) joint without signs of instability. 2. Arthrodesis of the TMT-1 joint in all cases of instability or degenerative changes with an intact MTP 1 joint, the so-called Lapidus arthrodesis. This article gives an overview over the most important and widely used surgical techniques for correction of severe hallux valgus deformities. Emphasis is placed on the different osteosynthesis techniques and the recommended postoperative regimens. The advantages and disadvantages of the most frequently employed osteotomy techniques are discussed based on the current literature and the authors own experience.