Transarticular Fixation of Akin Osteotomy on Patients with Hallux Valgus after Resection of Medial Protrusion of Base of Proximal Phalanx

Ahn, Seong Jun; Kim, Bu Hwan; Song, Moo Ho; Kang, Suk Woong; Oh, Kwan Taek; Yoo, Seong Ho

Abstract

PURPOSE
When medial protrusion in the base of proximal phalanx is severe from removing metatarsal bunion during the hallux valgus surgery, it could lead to skin irritation and medial pain after the surgery. The purpose of this paper was to report our clinical and radiographic results with transarticular fixation of Akin osteotomy for the treatment of patients with hallux valgus after resection of the medial protrusion of base of the proximal phalanx.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
Our study is subject to 34 cases of 30 patients who went through proximal phalanx medial corticectomy among patients undergone both hallux valgus surgery and Akin osteotomy at our institution from March 2006 to March 2012. In all cases, we used absorbable suture material through the articular surface for Akin osteotomy after resection of the medial protrusion in proximal phalanx. Radiographs were reviewed to assess the union and displacement of osteotomy site at the time of postoperative 6 months. The clinical results were assessed by using AOFAS score and complication such as skin irritation and pain.
RESULTS
AOFAS score was improved from average 44 points(36-58), before operation and average 87 points(74-96), 12 months after operation. In two cases, partial union was suspected in radiological perspective, however, complete union on the osteotomy site was observed in all cases, 12 months after the operation. No patients was dissatisfied with pain, joint discomfort, skin irritation and inflammation from the knot.
CONCLUSION
When medial protrusion in the base of proximal phalanx is severe from removing metatarsal bunion during the hallux valgus surgery, We have good results by transarticular fixation of Akin osteotomy using absorbable suture material.