Five-Year Follow-up of Minimally Invasive Distal Metatarsal Chevron Osteotomy in Comparison with the Open Technique: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

BACKGROUND

The aim of the present prospective randomized study was to evaluate the long-term outcomes of minimally invasive chevron osteotomy as compared with open distal chevron osteotomy for the correction of hallux valgus deformity.

METHODS

A randomized controlled design was applied. The following parameters were assessed at 6 and 12 weeks, 9 months, and 5 years postoperatively: the American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) Forefoot Score, a visual analog scale (VAS) score for pain, and a patient-satisfaction score. In addition, several radiographic parameters for hallux valgus correction and joint degeneration were collected. Range of motion was also assessed. Thirty-nine of 47 feet were available for analysis at the time of the latest follow-up.

RESULTS

During the 5-year study period, the outcomes of the minimally invasive technique were comparable with those of the open technique. No significant differences were seen between the 2 groups within 5 years postoperatively in terms of clinical outcomes (VAS, AOFAS, satisfaction), radiographic outcomes, joint degeneration, or range of motion.

CONCLUSIONS

Five years after treatment, the outcome following minimally invasive distal chevron osteotomy is comparable with that for the open technique for hallux valgus surgery.

LEVELS OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic Level I. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.