Proximal to distal phalangeal articular angle of the first proximal phalanx: Reliability and correlation with round...

To reduce the rate of correction loss in hallux valgus surgery, a proximal to distal phalangeal articular angle (PDPAA) of the proximal phalanx of the greater toe of> 8° is considered an indication for a combined Akin and Chevron osteotomy. The PDPAA is measured between the articular surfaces of the proximal phalanx of the greater toe. Viewed from a sagittal perspective, the joint surfaces are not perpendicular aligned to the phalanx axis. Therefore, the PDPAA might be confounded by pronation. This study aims to, first, evaluate the intra- and interobserver reliability of the PDPAA and, second, to analyze the correlation to first ray pronation.

In a consecutive series of 59 feet who underwent hallux valgus (HV) surgery, PDPAA, round sign and other angles were measured on weight-bearing radiographs pre- and postoperatively. After power analysis, the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was used to calculate the intra- and interobserver reliability. The correlation of PDPAA with the round sign as well as angles defining the HV and the Hallux valgus interphalangeus (HVI) were evaluated.

The PDPAA showed an excellent intra- and interobserver reliability (ICC 0.92 and 0.89, p < 0.05). The round sign did not correlate significantly with the PDPAA (p = 0.51). However, the PDPAA showed a moderate correlation with the interphalangeal angle (r = 0.51, p < 0.05) and fair inversely with the intermetatarsal angle (r = -0.45, p < 0.05).

First, measurement of PDPAA is reliable. Second, PDPAA is not associated with first ray pronation, but a false low PDPAA is geometrically possible. A high PDPAA correlates with a relevant HVI and inversely correlates with the HV like the HVI. Hence, first ray pronation should be treated first and a remaining PDPAA of> 8° after intraoperatively reevaluation separately.