Modified Austin procedure for correction of hallux valgus

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Foot and Ankle Surgery

Background:

• Hallux valgus is a common foot deformity.
• The Austin osteotomy is a standard surgical correction for mild to moderate hallux valgus.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of an Austin osteotomy combined with a lateral soft tissue procedure for hallux valgus correction.
• To assess the impact of this combined procedure on first metatarsophalangeal joint biomechanics and patient outcomes.

Main Methods:

• Eighty-five patients underwent the combined Austin osteotomy and lateral soft tissue procedure.
• Follow-up included radiographic measurements (intermetatarsal angle, hallux valgus angle, sesamoid position) and patient-reported functional and cosmetic outcomes.
• The lateral soft tissue procedure involved dissection of the plantar transverse ligament and release of the lateral capsule.

Main Results:

• Significant correction of intermetatarsal angle (13.9° to 5.8°) and hallux valgus angle (29.7° to 11.9°).
• Improved sesamoid position (2.1 to 0.5), indicating restored biomechanics.
• No increase in avascular necrosis of the first metatarsal head compared to the original Austin osteotomy.

Conclusions:

• The combined Austin osteotomy and lateral soft tissue procedure is an effective treatment for hallux valgus.
• This technique restores first metatarsophalangeal joint biomechanics and yields good functional and cosmetic results.
• The modified procedure offers a safe and effective alternative for hallux valgus correction.