Clinical and radiological results after Austin bunionectomy for treatment of hallux valgus.

The results of the Austin osteotomies for hallux valgus deformity performed at the Orthopedic Hospital Gersthof were reviewed at least 1 year after surgery. Of the 53 consecutive patients (66 operations) with an average follow-up of 24.3 months, 49 patients (62 feet) were interviewed. Of the reviewed patients 86.6% achieved good or excellent clinical results. The complication rate was 8%, including hallux varus n (3), superficial n (1) and deep n (1) wound infections, hypoaesthesia n (2), and reflex sympathetic dystrophy n (1). There was one case of avascular necrosis of the first metatarsal head and none of non-union. The Austin osteotomy is a safe and effective treatment of mild and moderate hallux valgus deformity.