Distal chevron osteotomy versus different operative procedures for hallux valgus correction: a meta-analysis

Distal chevron osteotomy is commonly used for the operative treatment of hallux valgus (HV). However, there are several operative procedures that can be used to treat HV. The aim of this meta-analysis was to compare the efficacy of distal chevron osteotomy with different operative procedures.

A systematic search was conducted using the MEDLINE and EMBASE databases to identify randomized clinical trials (RCTs). The variables were radiological (hallux metatarsal phalangeal angle [HVA] and intermetatarsal angle [IMA]) and clinical (American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society Score [AOFAS]). Heterogeneity was assessed with chi² and I² statistics. A random effects model was used for significant heterogeneity. Publication bias was evaluated with funnel plots.

Ten studies involving 985 patients were evaluated in the meta-analysis. Distal chevron osteotomy was associated with a mean IMA correction 2.18° greater than the scarf procedure (MD - 2.18; 95% CI - 3.67, - 0.69; p = 0.004; I² = 0%). In addition, the proximal chevron was associated with a mean IMA correction 1.08° greater than the distal chevron (MD - 1.08; 95% CI - 1.86, - 0.29; p = 0.007; I² = 0%). The AOFAS assessment showed an overall advantage of 3.2 points in favor of the Lingdren group compared with distal chevron osteotomy (MD 3.20; 95% CI 0.37, 6.04; p = 0.03; I² = 0%).

Our findings indicate that distal chevron osteotomy provides a greater HVA correction than scarf osteotomy, and proximal chevron provides a larger IMA correction than distal chevron osteotomy. Lingdren osteotomy provides a greater AOFAS correction than distal chevron osteotomy.

Level I, meta-analysis.