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Measurement of first-ray mobility in normal vs. hallux valgus patients.

Hypermobility of the first ray is one causative factor in development of hallux valgus and an important factor in the treatment of hallux valgus, but measuring first-ray motion is difficult. There are two known ways of measuring first-ray motion. One is measuring the bony angle on the lateral foot X-ray using a modified Coleman block. The other is using devices. However, neither is suitable for clinical application. We introduce a simple, fast and easy way of measuring first-ray range of motion. Using this method, we compared the first-ray motion between a normal group and a hallux valgus group. Forty normal and 60 hallux valgus patients were included in the measurement. We measured the first-ray range of motion in the following way: with one hand we held the 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 5th rays at the metatarsal head level with a simple right-angled indicator. With the other hand, we held the first ray at the metatarsal head level using a simple right-angled device, such as a scale. Keeping the other rays fixed, we moved the first ray up and down and recorded the average distance (d) 10 times to reduce intra-measurement differences. We also measured and recorded the first metatarsal length (L) on the anteroposterior foot X-ray film. Finally, we calculated the first-ray range of motion (alpha) using the above data. We also measured the hallux valgus angle and intermetatarsal angle in the hallux valgus patient group. With this method, the average first-ray motion was 10.3 degrees in the normal group and 12.9 degrees in the hallux valgus patient group. If we define 14 degrees, (that is, above the 95th percentile in the normal group) as having hypermobility, 38% of hallux valgus patients had first ray hypermobility. There was no correlation between first-ray hypermobility and either hallux valgus angle or intermetatarsal angle.

Adult↗

First metatarsophalangeal joint arthrodesis as a treatment for failed hallux valgus surgery.

BACKGROUND: The results of first metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint arthrodesis as a specific treatment for failed hallux valgus correction has not been previously reported. We evaluated the results of first metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint arthrodesis as a treatment for failed hallux valgus surgery. METHODS: The records of the senior author (MJC) were reviewed to identify patients treated for symptomatic failed hallux valgus procedures with arthrodesis of the first metatarsophalangeal joint over a 20-year period. Twenty-nine patients (33 feet) were available for followup examination. The patients completed a visual analog pain score, the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) Hallux Metatarsophalangeal-Interphalangeal Scale, and a patient satisfaction scale at the final followup. Radiographs were obtained of both feet. RESULTS: The average followup was 8 (1 to 22) years. The average pain score improved from 7 to 3 points. The mean AOFAS score was 73 points at followup. Patient satisfaction was excellent for 13 feet (39%), good in 11 (33%), fair in eight (24%), and poor in one (3%). The mean hallux valgus angle was 16 degrees, with an intermetatarsal angle of 8 degrees. There were three asymptomatic and one symptomatic nonunions. Twenty-two feet (67%) had corrective procedures performed on the lesser toes at the time of the first MTP joint arthrodesis. CONCLUSIONS: First MTP joint arthrodesis is a reliable option for revision after failure of surgical treatment of hallux valgus. This procedure can be used to treat a number of failure modes following initial hallux valgus surgery including recurrence, hallux varus, cock-up deformity, degenerative arthritis of the MTP joint, and associated transfer lesions beneath the lesser metatarsals. First MTP joint arthrodesis can be used after failed proximal and distal osteotomies, arthrodesis of the metatarsocuneiform joint, McBride procedure, exostectomy, and resection arthroplasty. Revision procedures have poorer clinical outcomes than successful primary hallux valgus procedures.

Adult↗

The Lapidus procedure as salvage after failed surgical treatment of hallux valgus: a prospective cohort study.

BACKGROUND: Recurrent hallux valgus is a relatively common, yet challenging, condition for both the patient and the surgeon. The literature on the treatment of recurrent hallux valgus is sparse. The purpose of this study was to evaluate prospectively the functional outcome and patient satisfaction following the Lapidus procedure for the treatment of recurrent hallux valgus deformity. METHODS: Twenty-four patients with a total of twenty-six symptomatic recurrences of hallux valgus after previous procedures for treatment of the deformity were included in the study. Exclusion criteria included prior fusion procedures on the foot or ankle, a previous Keller or Mayo procedure, insulin-dependent diabetes, peripheral vascular disease, or peripheral neuropathy. A visual analog pain scale and the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society Hallux Metatarsophalangeal-Interphalangeal Scale were administered preoperatively, at six months postoperatively, and yearly thereafter. Weight-bearing radiographs were also made preoperatively; at six weeks, three months, six months, and one year postoperatively; and yearly thereafter. Patient satisfaction was assessed at the latest follow-up evaluation. RESULTS: At twenty-four months, the mean score according to the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) Hallux Metatarsophalangeal-Interphalangeal Scale had increased from 47.6 to 87.9 points, the mean score according to the visual analog pain scale had improved from 6.2 to 1.4, the mean hallux valgus angle had improved from 37.1 degrees to 17.1 degrees, and the mean intermetatarsal angle had improved from 18 degrees to 8.6 degrees. The patients were very satisfied after 77% of the twenty-six procedures, satisfied after 4%, and somewhat satisfied after 19%; no patient was dissatisfied. There were no cases of hallux varus. Complications included three nonunions, all of which occurred in smokers, and two superficial wound infections. CONCLUSION: In appropriately selected patients, the Lapidus procedure is a reliable and effective operation after failed surgical treatment of hallux valgus. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic study, Level IV (case series [no, or historical, control group]). See p. 2 for complete description of levels of evidence.

Adult↗

The Lapidus procedure as salvage after failed surgical treatment of hallux valgus. Surgical technique.

BACKGROUND: Recurrent hallux valgus is a relatively common, yet challenging, condition for both the patient and the surgeon. The literature on the treatment of recurrent hallux valgus is sparse. The purpose of this study was to evaluate prospectively the functional outcome and patient satisfaction following the Lapidus procedure for the treatment of recurrent hallux valgus deformity. METHODS: Twenty-four patients with a total of twenty-six symptomatic recurrences of hallux valgus after previous procedures for treatment of the deformity were included in the study. Exclusion criteria included prior fusion procedures on the foot or ankle, a previous Keller or Mayo procedure, insulin dependent diabetes, peripheral vascular disease, or peripheral neuropathy. A visual analog pain scale and the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society Hallux Metatarsophalangeal-Interphalangeal Scale were administered preoperatively, at six months postoperatively, and yearly thereafter. Weight-bearing radiographs were also made preoperatively; at six weeks, three months, six months, and one year postoperatively; and yearly thereafter. Patient satisfaction was assessed at the latest follow-up evaluation. RESULTS: At twenty-four months, the mean score according to the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) Hallux Metatarsophalangeal-Interphalangeal Scale had increased from 47.6 to 87.9 points, the mean score according to the visual analog pain scale had improved from 6.2 to 1.4, the mean hallux valgus angle had improved from 37.1 degrees to 17.1 degrees, and the mean intermetatarsal angle had improved from 18 degrees to 8.6 degrees. The patients were very satisfied after 77% of the twenty-six procedures, satisfied after 4%, and somewhat satisfied after 19%; no patient was dissatisfied. There were no cases of hallux varus. Complications included three nonunions, all of which occurred in smokers, and two superficial wound infections. CONCLUSIONS: In appropriately selected patients, the Lapidus procedure is a reliable and effective operation after failed surgical treatment of hallux valgus.

Hallux Valgus↗

Metatarsus primus elevatus in hallux rigidus: fact or fiction?

Two hundred seventy-five lateral weightbearing radiographs of isolated pathology were reviewed and stratified into hallux rigidus (n = 100), hallux valgus (n = 75), plantar fasciitis (n = 50), and Morton's neuroma (n = 50) groups. The patient population consisted of healthy individuals with no history of foot trauma or surgery. The first to second metatarsal head elevation, Seiberg index, first to second sagittal intermetatarsal angle, first to fifth metatarsal head distance, and hallux equinus angle were measured in each population. Statistically significant differences were found between the hallux valgus, plantar fasciitis, and Morton's neuroma populations and the hallux rigidus population, which showed greater elevation of the first metatarsal relative to the second for each radiographic measurement technique. In the hallux rigidus population, there was a statistically significant difference between grade II and grades I and III regarding the first to fifth metatarsal head distance (greater in grade II) and the hallux equinus angle (lower in grade II). A review of the literature and comparison with historical controls reveals that metatarsus primus elevatus exists in hallux rigidus and is greater than that found in hallux valgus, plantar fasciitis, and Morton's neuroma groups.

Adult↗

Effects of hallux limitus on plantar foot pressure and foot kinematics during walking.

The effects of hallux limitus on plantar foot pressure and foot kinematics have received limited attention in the literature. Therefore, a study was conducted to assess the effects of limited first metatarsophalangeal joint mobility on plantar foot pressure. It was equally important to identify detection criteria based on plantar pressures and metatarsophalangeal joint kinematics, enabling differentiation between subjects affected by hallux limitus and people with normal hallux function. To further our understanding of the relation between midtarsal collapse and hallux limitus, kinematic variables relating to midtarsal pronation were also included in the study. Two populations of 19 subjects each, one with hallux limitus and the other free of functional abnormalities, were asked to walk at their preferred speed while plantar foot pressures were recorded along with three-dimensional foot kinematics. The presence of hallux limitus, structural or functional, caused peak plantar pressure under the hallux to build up significantly more and at a faster rate than under the first metatarsal head. Additional discriminators for hallux limitus were peak dorsiflexion of the first metatarsophalangeal joint, time to this peak value, peak pressure ratios of the first metatarsal head and the more lateral metatarsal heads, and time to maximal pressure under the fourth and fifth metatarsal heads. Finally, in approximately 20% of the subjects, with and without hallux limitus, midtarsal pronation occurred after heel lift, validating the claim that retrograde midtarsal pronation does occur.

Adult↗

Medial deviation of the first metatarsal head as a result of flexion forces in hallux valgus.

Several questions with regard to the hallux valgus complex, which includes metatarsus primus varus, give rise to discussion. How do bunions develop? Is disturbed muscle balance at the first metatarsophalangeal joint important in the pathogenesis of the hallux valgus complex? What is the relation between dynamic plantar load distribution and pain in the ball of the foot? What is the cause of recurrences of deformity after surgery? To answer these questions, we started with the biomechanical model of Snijders et al., which states that contraction of flexor muscles of the hallux worsens its valgus angle and causes medial deviation of the first metatarsal head. The present study was designed to validate the model on patients. When pressing the hallux downward, simultaneously the force under the toe and the medial deviation of the first metatarsal head were measured on preoperative patients and on controls (35 subjects in all). We could demonstrate with statistical significance that (1) when the subjects with hallux valgus push the great toe on the ground, the first metatarsal head moved in medial direction; in other words the foot widened. In the controls, as an average, the foot became narrower. (2) The greater the valgus deviation of the hallux, the greater the effect of the toe flexors, and (3) the greater the valgus deviation of the hallux, the less maximal flexion force it can apply. Implications of these findings on conservative and surgical therapy are discussed. The recurrences of deformity after first metatarsal osteotomies are explained by the action of the hallux flexors.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Adolescent↗

A radiographic study of the relationship between metatarsus adductus and hallux valgus.

The relationship between metatarsus adductus and hallux valgus was evaluated on 100 dorsoplantar weight-bearing radiographs. The metatarsus adductus angle varied positively with the degree of hallux valgus. By using measures of correlation, a significant linear association was found for women (r =.53, P <.001) and men (r =.48, P <.001). The relationship was strongest in women when all cases of abnormal metatarsus adductus (>24 degrees ) were associated with abnormal degrees of hallux valgus (>15 degrees ). This relationship was different in men in that abnormal metatarsus adductus angles were not always associated with abnormal hallux valgus angles. With male and female data combined, the prevalence of metatarsus adductus was 55% in subjects with hallux valgus deformity compared with 19% in subjects without hallux valgus. A Chi(2) test showed this to be a significant difference in the distribution of the data (P =.002). The data of this study suggests that there may be a clinical association between metatarsus adductus and hallux valgus. The need to further evaluate the role of metatarsus adductus angle in hallux valgus surgery is emphasized.

Adult↗

Radiographic validation of the Manchester scale for the classification of hallux valgus deformity.

OBJECTIVES: Hallux valgus is a common orthopaedic condition affecting elderly people. Grading the severity of the condition commonly involves obtaining measurements from radiographs, which may not be feasible or necessary in some clinical or research settings. Recently, a non-invasive clinical assessment tool (the Manchester scale), consisting of four standardized photographs, has been developed; however, its validity has not yet been determined. Therefore, the objective of this study was to determine the validity of this tool by correlating Manchester scale scores with hallux valgus measurements obtained from radiographs. METHODS: Weight-bearing dorsoplantar foot radiographs were obtained from 95 subjects (31 men and 64 women) aged 62-94 yr (mean 78.6, s.d. 6.5), and measurements of the hallux abductus angle, intermetatarsal angle and hallux interphalangeal adbuctus angle were performed. These measurements were then correlated with the Manchester scale scores (none, mild, moderate or severe). RESULTS: The Manchester scale score was highly correlated with hallux abductus angle (Spearman's rho = 0.73, P<0.01) and moderately associated with intermetatarsal angle (rho = 0.49, P<0.01) measurements obtained from radiographs. Analysis of variance revealed significant differences in mean hallux abductus angles [F3 = 119.99, P<0.001] and intermetatarsal angles [F3 =29.56, P<0.001] between the four Manchester scale categories. CONCLUSIONS: These findings indicate that the Manchester scale provides a valid representation of the degree of hallux valgus deformity determined from radiographic measurement of hallux abductus angle and intermetatarsal angle. We therefore recommend the use of this instrument as a simple, non-invasive screening tool for clinical and research purposes.

Aged↗

Radiographic analysis of hallux valgus in women on weightbearing and nonweightbearing.

To investigate changes in the radiographic appearance during weightbearing in hallux valgus and to examine the importance of a weightbearing view, a comparative study was performed of accurate dorsoplantar radiographs of 108 symptomatic hallux valgus feet in 73 female patients and 100 normal feet in 69 females, which were taken weightbearing and nonweightbearing. The hallux valgus angle in the hallux valgus group increased on weightbearing, whereas that in the normal group decreased. The intermetatarsal angle between the first and second metatarsals increased on weightbearing in both groups. The degree of the changes of the angles was closely related with the degree of the hallux valgus deformity. The intermetatarsal angle between the fourth and fifth metatarsals decreased on weightbearing in the both groups. A weightbearing view is necessary to evaluate the structural configuration of hallux valgus, because muscle imbalance around the first metatarsophalangeal joint in hallux valgus causes an increase of a hallux valgus angle on weightbearing.

Adolescent↗

Anatomic determinants of first metatarsophalangeal flexion moments in hallux valgus.

A laboratory cadaver model was used to assess the effects of the major anatomic components of hallux valgus deformity on first metatarsophalangeal flexion moments. The individual components of the flexor hallucis longus' effective tendon moment arm were evaluated as a function of imposed hallux valgus, of hallux pronation, and of combined hallux valgus and pronation. To simulate the effects of distal first metatarsal surgery, the components' changes after metatarsal head lateral translation or supination were assessed. Significant changes in effective tendon moment arm occurred with increases in the hallux valgus angle, with changes in the hallux pronation angle, and with combined increases in the hallux valgus angle and hallux pronation angles. The changes involved primarily were a redirection of the moment vector's projection within the superior and inferior plane or medial and lateral plane, rather than an appreciable alteration of the magnitude of the resultant. By contrast, neither translational nor rotational displacements of the metatarsal head influenced any of the individual components of the effective tendon moment arm.

Biomechanical Phenomena↗

Associated deformities and hypermobility in hallux valgus: an investigation with weightbearing radiographs.

BACKGROUND: Hallux valgus has been reported to recur after surgical correction in patients subsequently diagnosed with hypermobility of the first ray, pronation of the foot, and pes planovalgus. An objective means of assessing the foot for these deformities preoperatively may avert a poor outcome. This investigation evaluated the efficacy of full-length weightbearing radiographs to recognize associated deformities in patients with hallux valgus before surgery. METHODS: This study compared five parameters from anteroposterior and four parameters from lateral weightbearing pedal radiographs of patients with moderate to severe hallux valgus to a control group to identify differences in the alignment of the midfoot and the first metatarsal-medial cuneiform joint. An examination for clinical evidence of hypermobility was also performed on both groups. RESULTS: The hallux valgus group demonstrated increased abduction and dorsiflexion of the midfoot. The mean talonavicular coverage angle and lateral talo-first metatarsal angle of this group was greater than the mean values for the controls. Radiographic evaluation also revealed differences in the alignment of the first metatarsal-medial cuneiform joint in the sagittal plane. The hallux valgus group possessed a mean of 2 mm of dorsal translation and 2 degrees of dorsiflexion at this joint compared to the controls. CONCLUSIONS: Weightbearing radiographs permit the recognition of associated malalignments of the foot in patients with hallux valgus. The comparisons performed in this study identified deformities consistent with pes planovalgus and hypermobility of the first ray in patients with moderate to severe hallux valgus. The results of our study support a recommendation for a thorough evaluation of full-length, biplanar weightbearing radiographs via the measurement of midfoot and first ray alignment for concomitant deformities of the foot in patients with hallux valgus.

Adolescent↗

Pathomechanics of hallux valgus: biomechanical and immunohistochemical study.

BACKGROUND: One factor believed to contribute to the development of hallux valgus is an abnormality in collagen structure and makeup of the medial collateral ligament (MCL) of the first metatarsophalangeal joint (MTPJ). We hypothesized that the mechanical properties of the MCL in feet with hallux valgus are significantly different from those in normal feet and that these differences may be related to alterations in the type or distribution of collagen fibers at the interface between the MCL and the bone. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Seven normal fresh-frozen cadaver feet were compared to four cadaver feet that had hallux valgus deformities. The MCL mechanical properties, structure of collagen fibers, and content proportion of type I and type III collagen were determined. RESULTS: The load-deformation and stress-strain curves were curvilinear with three regions: laxity, toe, and linear regions. Laxity of the MCL in feet with hallux valgus was significantly larger than that of normal feet (p = 0.022). Stiffness and tensile modulus in the toe region in feet with hallux valgus were significantly smaller than those in normal feet (p = 0.004); however, stiffness and tensile modulus in the linear region were not significantly different. The MCL collagen fibrils in the feet with hallux valgus had a more wavy distribution than the fibrils in the normal feet. CONCLUSIONS: In general, strong staining for collagen III and to a lesser extent, collagen I was observed at the interface between the MCL and bone in the feet with hallux valgus but not in the normal feet. These results indicate that the abnormal mechanical properties of the MCL in feet with hallux valgus may be related to differences in the organization of collagen I and collagen III fibrils.

Adult↗

Correction of moderate to severe hallux valgus deformity by a modified chevron shaft osteotomy.

BACKGROUND: Hallux valgus is one of the most common foot deformities in women. Despite the large number of techniques described for hallux valgus correction, there has been much controversy regarding the best procedure to use, especially for severe deformities. Proximal osteotomies have long been done for severe deformities; however, diaphyseal osteotomies have gained popularity because of the greater degree of correction and stability obtained. METHODS: This study retrospectively assessed the radiographic and clinical outcomes in 50 feet (34 patients) that had a modified chevron shaft osteotomy for moderate to severe hallux valgus. Additionally, an Akin medial closing wedge osteotomy of the proximal phalanx was done in most patients. Mean followup was 30 months (minimum 13 months). All patients in the study had either moderate or severe deformities. Patients with mild deformities had correction by other techniques. RESULTS: There was a mean AOFAS score improvement of 39.6 (44.5 to 84.1) points. The hallux valgus angle and intermetatarsal angle improved a mean of 22.7 degrees and 10.4 degrees, respectively. Hallux valgus persisted in one foot; however, the patient was not dissatisfied. Two feet developed hallux varus. Revision was necessary in two patients; one needed revision because of loss of fixation and the other because of symptomatic hallux varus. CONCLUSION: Based on radiographic correction and clinical outcomes, this procedure is indicated for the treatment of moderate to severe hallux valgus deformities.

Adolescent↗

Reliability and validity of the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society Clinical Rating Scale: a pilot study for the hallux and lesser toes.

BACKGROUND: The use of clinical outcomes instruments is essential for the effective interpretation of individual patient progress as well as the comparison of treatment groups. An outcomes instrument must be reliable and valid to obtain any meaningful data. The purpose of the present study was to examine the reliability and validity of the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) clinical rating scale for the hallux metatarsophalangeal-interphalangeal and lesser toes metatarsophalangeal-interphalangeal joints. METHODS: Eleven patients (one man, 10 women) with an average age of 54 (range 40 to 72) years and with classic rheumatoid arthritis not currently treated for foot complaints were enrolled in the present study. The average duration of rheumatoid arthritis was 14 years. Each patient completed a set of two outcomes instruments and had a physical examination by a single clinician at the initial visit and returned at 1 week for completion of the same scales and examination. The outcomes scales used were the AOFAS clinical rating scale for the hallux, the AOFAS clinical rating scale for the lesser toes, and the previously validated Foot Function Index (FFI). Test-retest reliability was evaluated using intraclass correlation coefficients between week 1 and week 2 for the summary scores as well as for the subscales of pain and activity. Consistency between the two instruments was evaluated with Pearson correlation coefficients. RESULTS: The AOFAS clinical rating scale for the hallux and lesser toes is repeatable between 1-week trials (ICC 0.95; p < 0.05; ICC 0.80; p < 0.05, respectively). Moderately strong correlations were found between the mean values for the AOFAS hallux and FFI (r = -0.81; p < 0.05). Weaker correlations were seen between the mean values for the AOFAS lesser toes and FFI scales (r = -0.69; p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The hallux subscale for pain correlates strongly with the FFI subscale for pain, suggesting high content validity (r = -0.94; p < 0.001). Ceiling effects were seen with the AOFAS lesser toe subscale for activity, limiting its usefulness in a general patient population. The AOFAS lesser toe subscale for pain and the AOFAS hallux subscale for activity correlated weakly with the FFI values (r = -0.31; r = -0.37; p > 0.05, respectively). CONCLUSIONS: Although the AOFAS hallux and lesser toe scales were found to be reliable in a rheumatoid patient population, their validity remains in question. These findings must be confirmed with larger subject numbers, with the inclusion of symptomatic patients before recommended routine use of the hallux clinical rating and lesser toe clinical rating scales.

Adult↗

Role of metatarsus primus elevatus in the pathogenesis of hallux rigidus.

Metatarsus primus elevatus has been suggested as a primary causative factor in the pathogenesis of hallux rigidus. The purpose of this investigation was to define the role of elevation of the first ray in the pathogenesis of hallux rigidus by comparing patients with known hallux rigidus with a control population. We reviewed 264 lateral weightbearing radiographs from 81 patients with hallux rigidus, 50 asymptomatic volunteers, and 64 patients diagnosed with isolated Morton's neuroma. Results revealed that the mean values for elevation of the first ray in patients with mild or moderate hallux rigidus were nearly identical to those in the control group. Patients with advanced radiographic hallux rigidus had a slightly higher mean value for metatarsus primus elevatus. An average of nearly 8 mm of metatarsus primus elevatus is a normal finding in patients with hallux rigidus as well as in normal subjects. This investigation did not address the clinical outcome or biomechanical effects of a plantarflexion osteotomy of the first ray. However, on the basis of the finding that first ray elevation is normal, it seems unlikely that a plantarflexion osteotomy would have a role in the treatment of hallux rigidus.

Adult↗

Interventions for treating hallux valgus (abductovalgus) and bunions.

BACKGROUND: Hallux valgus is classified as an abnormal deviation of the great toe (hallux) towards the midline of the foot. OBJECTIVES: To identify and evaluate the evidence from randomised trials of interventions used to correct hallux valgus. SEARCH STRATEGY: We searched the Cochrane Musculoskeletal Injuries Group trials register (2003/1), the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (The Cochrane Library issue 1, 2003), MEDLINE (January 1966 to March 2003) and EMBASE (1980 to January 2003). No language restrictions were applied. Hand searching of specific foot journals was also undertaken. Date of the most recent search: 31st March 2003. SELECTION CRITERIA: Randomised or quasi-randomised trials of both conservative and surgical treatments of hallux valgus. Excluded were studies comparing areas of surgery not specific to the control of the deformity such as use of anaesthetics or tourniquet placement. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: Methodological quality of trials which met the inclusion criteria was independently assessed by two reviewers. Data extraction was undertaken by two reviewers. The trials were grouped according to the interventions being compared, but the dissimilarity in the comparisons prevented pooling of results. MAIN RESULTS: The methodological quality of the 21 included trials was generally poor and trial sizes were small. Three trials involving 332 participants evaluated conservative treatments versus no treatment. There was no evidence of a difference in outcomes between treatment and no treatment. One good quality trial involving 140 participants compared surgery to conservative treatment. Evidence was shown of an improvement in all outcomes in patients receiving chevron osteotomy compared with those receiving orthoses. The same trial also compared surgery to no treatment in 140 participants. Evidence was shown of an improvement in all outcomes in patients receiving chevron osteotomy compared with those receiving no treatment. Two trials involving 133 people with hallux valgus compared Keller's arthroplasty with other surgical techniques. In general, there was no advantage or disadvantage using Keller's over the other techniques. When the distal osteotomy was compared to Keller's arthroplasty, the osteotomy showed evidence of improving the intermetatarsal angle and preserving joint range of motion. The arthroplasty was found to have less of an impact on walking ability compared to the arthrodesis. Six trials involving 309 participants compared chevron (and chevron-type) osteotomy with other techniques. The chevron osteotomy offered no advantages in these trials. For some outcomes, other techniques gave better results. Two of these trials (94 participants) compared a type of proximal osteotomy to a proximal chevron osteotomy and found no evidence of a difference in outcomes between techniques. Three trials involving 157 participants compared outcomes between original operations and surgeon's adaptations. There was no advantage found for any of the adaptations. Three trials involving 71 people with hallux valgus compared new methods of fixation to traditional methods. There was no evidence that the new methods of fixation were detrimental to the outcome of the patients. Four trials involving 162 participants evaluated methods of post-operative rehabilitation. The use of continuous passive motion appeared to give an improved range of motion and earlier recovery following surgery. Early weightbearing or the use of a crepe bandage were not found to be detrimental to final outcome. REVIEWER'S CONCLUSIONS: Only a few studies had considered conservative treatments. The evidence from these suggested that orthoses and night splints did not appear to be any more beneficial in improving outcomes than no treatment. Surgery (chevron osteotomy) was shown to be beneficial compared to orthoses or no treatment, but when compared to other osteotomies, no technique was shown to be superior to any other. Only one trial had compared an osteotomy to an arthroplasty. There was limited evidence to suggest that the osteotomy gat the osteotomy gave the better outcomes. It was notable that the numbers of participants in some trials remaining dissatisfied at follow-up were consistently high (25 to 33%), even when the hallux valgus angle and pain had improved. A few of the more recent trials used assessment scores that combine several aspects of the patients outcomes. These scoring systems are useful to the clinician when comparing techniques but are of dubious relevance to the patient if they do not address their main concern and such scoring systems are frequently unvalidated. Only one study simply asked the patient if they were better than before the treatment. Final outcomes were most frequently measured at one year, with a few trials maintaining follow-up for 3 years. Such time-scales are minimal given that the patients will be on their feet for at least another 20-30 years after treatment. Future research should include patient-focused outcomes, standardised assessment criteria and longer surveillance periods, more usefully in the region of 5-10 years.

Hallux Valgus↗

Tendon shift in hallux valgus: observations at MR imaging.

OBJECTIVE: This study was undertaken to demonstrate a shift in tendon alignment at the first metatarsophalangeal joint in patients with hallux valgus by means of magnetic resonance imaging. DESIGN: Ten normal feet and 20 feet with the hallux valgus deformity conforming to conventional clinical and radiographic criteria were prospectively studied using magnetic resonance imaging. Correlation was made between tendon position at the first metatarsophalangeal joint and the severity of the hallux valgus deformity. RESULTS: There is a significant shift in tendon position at the first metatarsophalangeal joint of patients with hallux valgus. The insertion of the abductor hallucis tendon is markedly plantarward and the flexor and extensor tendons bowstring at the first metatarsophalangeal joint compared with patients without the deformity. The severity of the tendon shift correlates with the hallux valgus angle and clinical severity of the hallux valgus deformity in each case. CONCLUSION: Patients with hallux valgus have a significant tendon shift at the first metatarsophalangeal joint which appears to contribute to development of the deformity.

Case-Control Studies↗