Clinical and radiological outcomes after distal oblique osteotomy for the treatment of stage II hallux rigidus: Mid-term results.

BACKGROUND

The aim of this retrospective study was to evaluate the mid-term outcomes of the distal oblique osteotomy in the correction of stage II hallux rigidus.

METHODS

We evaluated 31 patients (32ft.) treated from March 2009 to April 2013 for hallux rigidus. The subjective evaluation was based on AOFAS score and self-evaluation of patient satisfaction. Radiographic analysis included: HVA, IMA, first metatarsophalangeal joint space, declination and shortening of first metatarsal.

RESULTS

The mean follow-up was 39.4±15.5 months (range, 24-73). The mean final AOFAS score was 89.1±6.5 from a preoperative score of 41.5±12 (p<0.001). Pain was totally absent in 71.9% of cases and mild occasionally present in 28.1%. The complication rate was of 6.2% (two cases).

CONCLUSIONS

These results demonstrate that the first metatarsal distal oblique osteotomy is an effective surgical treatment for stage II hallux rigidus with decrease of daily pain, high patient satisfaction and improved the range of motion.