Complications after Metatarsal Osteotomies for Hallux Valgus: Malunion, Nonunion, Avascular Necrosis, and Metatarsophalangeal Osteoarthritis.

Abstract

Avascular necrosis (AVN), nonunion, malunion, and metatarsophalangeal (MTP) osteoarthritis following hallux valgus osteotomies, as well as pathophysiology, diagnosis, prevention strategies, and treatment are discussed in this article. AVN and nonunion are very infrequent, and they can be effectively prevented taking into consideration local anatomy preservation, biomechanics, and patient comorbidities. Shortening, elevation, plantarflexion, varus/valgus, and rotational of the first metatarsal are the most common types of malunion. They can lead to pain, stiffness, deformity recurrence, and transfer metatarsalgia. MTP osteoarthritis can develop after metatarsal malunion or AVN. Treatment options include cheilectomy, osteotomies to correct malunions, and MTP arthrodesis.