Proximal closing wedge osteotomy and adductor tenotomy for treatment of hallux valgus.

After 2 to 4 years, 25 patients (27 feet) who had a proximal closing wedge osteotomy of the first metatarsal and an adductor tenotomy were reviewed. A total of 20 patients (22 of 27 feet) were completely satisfied; 5 patients not completely satisfied had metatarsalgia because of dorsal displacement of the first metatarsal head. Radiographic measurements showed a narrowing of the forefoot rather than a large change in the intermetatarsal angle. The recovery period was long, an average of 11 weeks. Pin inflammation occurred in 5 patients and incisional neuromas in 2 patients. The risk of these complications must be taken into consideration when using this operation.