Radiological evaluation of hallux valgus after application of mini tightrope: short-term results

ABSTRACT

Hallux valgus is the most common deformity of the great toe. Many traditional forms of osteotomy are available, but none has proven to be superior, despite their aggressiveness. The Mini TightRope[registered] [Arthrex Inc.] procedure appears to be a less invasive alternative, and the objective of the present study was to test the hypothesis that the procedure is an effective surgical option for reducing the intermetatarsal angle [IMA] and hallux valgus angle [HVA] in cases of hallux valgus of mild-to-moderate severity. Four patients [four feet] with hallux valgus underwent the Mini TightRope procedure. All the patients were women, and their mean age was 30.5 years. All patients were reviewed before and after the procedure, with an average post-operative follow-up of 1 year. The IMA, HVA and sesamoid bone position were the radiological indicators of correction. In the four operated patients, the mean IMA decreased from 15.75[degree] to 4.5[degree] and the mean HVA from 31.25[degree] to 5.75[degree]. The Mini TightRope procedure is a simpler, more effective, less invasive surgical option than other procedures and seems to correct IMA and HVA satisfactorily in cases of hallux valgus of mild-to-moderate severity. In view of the small number of cases and short follow-up, further studies with more cases and longer follow-up are needed.