Correction of Recurred Hallux Valgus Deformity by Endoscopic Distal Soft Tissue Procedure

Arthroscopic Lateral Soft Tissue Release for Hallux Valgus

Release of the tight lateral soft tissue is an important procedure during surgery for hallux valgus. The authors describe an arthroscopic assisted lateral soft tissue release technique that is minimally invasive and easy to perform, while also providing precise visualization of the released structures.

Endoscopy-Assisted Hallux Valgus Correction Provides Sustainable Long-Term >10-Year Outcomes

PURPOSE

This study aims to review the long-term efficacy of the endoscopy-assisted distal soft-tissue procedure (EDSTP) and to see whether operative correction can be maintained for >10 years.

METHODS

All hallux valgus cases undergoing EDSTP from 2000 to 2006 were recruited. Preoperative, postoperative, and 10-year follow-up x-rays were analyzed. A pain score from the preoperative and >10-year follow-up was recorded. The American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) hallux score and Foot and Ankle Outcome Score (FAOS) were measured at the >10-year follow-up.

RESULTS

A total of 85 cases met the inclusion criteria with an EDSTP performed between January 2000 and December 2006 and had a follow-up of >10 years. Hallux valgus angle corrected from 25.8° to 11.2° (P < .001), 1,2 intermetatarsal angle (1,2 IMA) improved from 13.5° to 9.5° (P < .001), and the tibial sesamoid position changed from 4 to 1 (P < .001). Pain improved from preoperative 6.5/10 to 0.5/10 (P < .001). AOFAS score was 93.5/100 at >10-year follow-up, and the FAOS was good in all 5 subcategories (range, 72.6-89.3).

CONCLUSIONS

Our results show that the EDSTP has good early postoperative results that are maintained for >10 years. It provides good long-term radiological correction, in addition to lasting pain relief and great foot function, using only 5 incisions.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV, case series.