Distal metatarsal osteotomy for bunionette deformity

Surgical treatment of a bunionette deformity was carried out in 54 feet (36 patients) using the Hohmann displacement osteotomy modified by Thomasen on the fifth metatarsal. Forty-eight operated feet (32 patients) were evaluated 69 months postoperatively (median). The patients were fully satisfied in 88% of the cases and partly satisfied or unsatisfied in 12%. The fully satisfied patients stressed the fact that they were now able to wear whatever style of footwear they desired. The objective success rate was 78% (6% recurrences, 10% transfer lesions, 4% intractable plantar keratosis and 2% operative complications). The authors conclude that the operation is an effective treatment for the bunionette deformity, and that the effect of the operation appears to be long lasting, with few reappearances 5 to 6 years after the operation.