Complications of distal first metatarsal osteotomies

Many surgical procedures have been described for the correction of hallux valgus and hallux limitus deformities. Distal first metatarsal osteotomies have been advocated since the turn of the century, and have been modified and improved since that time. Various complications have been associated with distal osteotomies, but there is infrequent reference to the normal changes in joint function, foot biomechanics, and forefoot pressures after surgery. The following literature review addresses the postoperative effects of decreased first metatarsophalangeal joint motion, shortening of the first metatarsal, dorsal displacement of the capital fragment, and transfer metatarsalgia on foot function.