Extensor hallucis longus tendon transfer for correction of hallux varus

The authors describe radiographic results from nine patients in whom hallux varus was repaired by transferring the extensor hallucis longus tendon (EHLT) under the deep transverse intermetatarsal ligament into the proximal-lateral base of the proximal phalanx. X-ray films revealed clinically significant changes in biomechanical relations, specifically in the hallux abductus angle. No clinically significant changes were seen in the intermetatarsal angle. The EHLT transfer procedure described is a valuable surgical alternative for correction of iatrogenic hallux varus deformity when combined with the appropriate adjunctive procedures.