Wilson's osteotomy for the treatment of hallux valgus

One hundred oblique distal first metatarsal osteotomies (Wilson's) were reviewed at an average of five years and two months following surgery. In 96 feet there was pain over the bunion or first metatarsophalangeal joint preoperatively. This pain was eliminated in 85 feet and improved in nine feet. Second metatarsalgia present preoperatively was relieved in five of seven feet, but 19 feet developed second metatarsalgia following surgery. The majority of patients were pleased with the outcome of the surgery. No significant complications were noted. The surgical technique of Wilson's first metatarsal osteotomy for hallux valgus is straight-forward and produces a predictably excellent result.