Proximal opening-wedge osteotomy of the first metatarsal for moderate and severe hallux valgus using low profile plates

Background: To present the results of the treatment of hallux valgus with the proximal metatarsal opening wedge (PMOW) osteotomy using two different screw and plate systems. Methods: Forty-one patients with moderate and severe hallux valgus were treated with the PMOW osteotomy between 2005 and 2009. The fixation was obtained by the Darco1 BOW or by the Arthrex1 LPS plate. Biplanar chevron and/or Akin osteotomy were associated according to the magnitude of distal angles. Each patient was evaluated with weight-bearing radiographs and AOFAS score. Results: The HV, IM, DMA and IP angles improved by a mean of 148, 88, 118, 78 respectively. The sesamoid position improved in 79% of the feet. AOFAS score improved from a mean of 50 to 82. Conclusion: The PMOW osteotomy is effective to correct high-level hallux valgus deformities. Both systems guarantee the stability and correction of the osteotomy site. The combination with distal procedures is advisable to correct distal angles. (C) 2013 European Foot and Ankle Society. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.