Treatment of metatarsalgia by sliding distal metatarsal osteotomy

A consecutive series of 113 patients who had distal sliding metatarsal osteotomy performed between 1976 and 1983 at Winford Orthopaedic Hospital were reviewed. All patients originally had symptoms and signs of pressure metatarsalgia. A total of 124 feet in 94 patients were available for assessment. Review was performed using a symptomatic scoring system, clinical examination, AP and lateral standing radiographs, and walking foot pressure studies obtained from a Harris-Beath mat. The mean follow-up period was 3 years and 4 months (range nine to 102 months). Symptomatically, 58 feet (47%) were rated as good, 43 (34%) as fair, and 23 (19%) as poor. Eighteen feet (14%) had required revision procedures prior to the time of review because of persistent symptoms. Persistent tender prominence of one or more metatarsal heads associated with plantar callosities was seen in 49 feet (40%). Results were significantly worse in patients older than 65 years of age, when first and fifth metatarsal osteotomies were performed, and when plaster immobilization was used postoperatively.