Minimally Invasive vs Open First Ray Dorsiflexion Osteotomy: Radiographic Outcomes and Early Complications Report

There is limited literature comparing open and minimally invasive surgical (MIS) techniques for first ray dorsiflexion osteotomy (DFO). This study is the first of its kind to report early healing and complication rates of patients undergoing MIS vs open first ray DFO.

A retrospective cohort review of 28 patients who underwent a first ray DFO procedure at an academic medical center between 2015 and 2024 was conducted. Demographic factors and medical comorbidities were recorded. Radiologic parameters were measured along with healing. Postoperative healing and outcomes were identified through medical record review.

Thirteen open and 15 MIS DFO procedures were performed. At follow-up, all osteotomies were healed with no wound or infection complications. There was no significant difference in hardware removal rates, 7.7% for open and 6.7% for MIS. The change in lateral Meary angle was 10.5 ± 3.9 and 9.7 ± 4.3 for the open and MIS groups, respectively (P = .61). The calculated dorsal closing wedge resection was 3.5 mm and 4.1 mm for open and MIS, respectively (P = .26).

This study showed no significant differences in healing or complication rates in the short term between MIS and open surgery, with comparable magnitude of correction, suggesting similar ability for the MIS technique to correct first ray alignment. Further studies are needed to determine long-term outcomes.