Fixation with Suture Material in Akin Osteotomy

Young, Ki Won; Lee, Kyung Tai; Kim, Jae young; Cha, Seung Do; Kim, Eung Soo

Abstract

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to document the results of fixation with ethibond suture in akin osteotomy and its advantages.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
From May 2001 to January 2004, Akin osteotomy was performed in 218 patients. We reviewed 110 patients (114 feet) who were possible radiographic evaluation more than 6 months after operation. 110 feet had hallux valgus and 4 feet had hallux valgus interphalangeus. 105 patients were female and 5 were male. The average age was 43.8 years old (18 to 68 years old). The average follow up was 9 months (6 to 23 months). After performing the Akin osteotomy at 7 mm from the proximal articular surface of the proximal phalanx, one hole is made on either side of the osteotomy site with a K-wire. The passer was passed through the both holes and the ethibond was passed. And then, the ethibond was tied tightly. 2 sutures in 66 feet and 1 suture in 48 feet were made. Radiographic bone union at 6 months follow up was regarded as success and loss of the reduction, nonunion was regarded as failed.
RESULTS
In the radiographic evaluation, bony union were made at 6 months follow up in all feet. There was no difference between 2 sutures and 1 suture, and the knots were removed in 3 feet because of skin irritation.
CONCLUSION
The fixation of the osteotomy site using suture material was an effective method in Akin osteotomy. The advantage of this procedure was unnecessity of the material removal.