Shortening of the first metatarsal following closing base wedge osteotomy

Shortening of the first metatarsal has been one of the reported complications noted in association with base osteotomies. Previous studies have used radiographs as a means of assessing metatarsal length, the reliability of which has been subject to question. In this study, the authors have determined the amount of shortening that may be anticipated with a closing base wedge osteotomy of the first metatarsal through an experimental model. A mathematical model was also devised that confirmed these findings. Additional studies were performed to determine what influences other variables may have on this procedure.