Short-term Results Using Locking Plate after Two-directional Osteotomy for Painful Hallux Valgus Deformity

Abstract

We compared the clinical results of two-directinal osteotomy for painful hallux valgus deformity after using screws (screw group, n=14) or a locking plate (plate group, n=14). The average age at the time of surgery was 55.9 years in the screw group and 50.5 years in the plate group. The average follow-up period was 3.5 years and nine months, respectively. The screw group was 62.6 days and the plate group 41.1 days for average hospitalization period. In the screw group, relative metatarsal protrusion (RMP) (mm) immediately after surgery and at final follow-up was 0.29±2.6mm and −1.36±2.4mm. On the other hand, in the plate group, RMP (mm) was −0.69±2.6mm and −1.54±2.6mm. The screw group was superior to the plate group in terms of American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society score (AOFAS score) at the time of follow-up. Many patients in the plate group complain of problems of pain and dysesthesia around the medial side of the plate. The plate group may therefore have better AOFAS scores and be satisfied with the results after removal of the plate. We concluded that the locking plate is superior to the screw in maintaining the length of the first metatarsal bone after surgery.