A pictorial review of reconstructive foot and ankle surgery: hallux abductovalgus

Abstract

This pictorial review focuses on basic procedures performed within the field of podiatric surgery, specifically for the hallux abductovalgus or "bunion" deformity.  Our goal is to define objective radiographic parameters that surgeons utilize to initially define deformity, lead to procedure selection and judge post-operative outcomes.  We hope that radiologists will employ this information to improve their assessment of post-operative radiographs following reconstructive foot surgeries.  First, relevant radiographic measurements are defined and their role in procedure selection explained.  Second, the specific surgical procedures of the distal metatarsal, metatarsal shaft, metatarsal base, and phalangeal osteotomies are described in detail.  Additional explanations of arthrodesis of the first metatarsal-phalangeal and metatarsal-cuneiform joints are also provided.  Finally, specific plain film radiographic findings that judge post-operative outcomes for each procedure are detailed.