Treatments associated with scarf osteotomy for hallux valgus correction

In view of the multiplicity of the proposed techniques for hallux valgus correction, we recommend to evaluate scarf osteotomy associated or not with phalangeal osteotomy and/or Weil osteotomy. We conducted a retrospective study of 29 patients, including a bilateral case, undergoing scarf osteotomy of the first ray with associated treatments in 80% of cases between 2011 and 2016. Results were analyzed on the basis of patients' satisfaction, Groulier index and radiological measurements. The overall Groulier score showed good objective assessment of the end results based on radiological and anatomical data influencing the end results in case of insufficient correction. The mean follow-up period was 3 years and 5 months. A significant reduction in phalangeal valgus (from 34,17% to 16.1%), in metatarsus varus (from 15.13% to 9.93%) and the distal metatarsal joint angle (17,63% to 12.73%) were obtained. Patients were satisfied and very satisfied in 83% of cases. Complications were dominated by hypocorrection in 13.3% of cases and no case of pseudarthrosis or of M1 head necrosis was reported. Our results are comparable to those reported in the literature. We particularly insist on the functional role of hallux valgus surgery that should be included in overall forefoot deformity correction. Scarf osteotomy requires rigorous technique. It gives reliable results, with limitations related to major deformities, especially of the distal metatarsal joint angle.