Basal osteotomy of the first metatarsal for the correction of metatarsus primus varus associated with hallux valgus.

At the University of Vienna Department of Orthopaedics, 26 feet in 21 patients were treated with a basal osteotomy for hallux valgus associated with metatarsus primus varus. In 85% of the cases, a satisfactory result was achieved. Critical analysis revealed shortening of the first metatarsal and elevation of its head, which resulted in excess lateral straining of the foot and metatarsalgia. In 15 cases, osteoarthritis in the metatarsocuneiform joint was also increased. Given these results, an osteotomy that prevents shortening of the first metatarsal and elevation of the head of the first metatarsal, or one that takes these facts into account, seems ideal.