THE MANN THREE-IN-ONE OPERATION FOR HALLUX VALGUS: A TEN-YEAR FOLLOW UP

Abstract

We present the long-term results of a single institute’s experience of the Mann 3 in 1 procedure. This prospective study initially selected 36 feet (25 patients) with severe hallux valgus, classified by a HV angle < 40° or IM angle> 15°, for the Mann 3 in 1 procedure. Preoperative and postoperative standing radiographs were taken to calculate the correction of the deformity, and a postoperative subjective questionnaire was completed which was based on the assessment criteria suggested by the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society in 1984. The initial follow-up was completed at up to one year.

The original cohort of patients was contacted again at 10 years (range 9–11 years) to repeat the same questionnaire and radiographs. In total 19 patients (27 feet) were contactable with an average age of 51 years (range 34–74). The questionnaire revealed one patient unable to perform the same occupation and three patients unable to perform the same activities due to ongoig problems with the operated feet. Thirteen patients had to wear modified footwear but only 2 required specially made shoes. Sixteen of the nineteen (84%) were pleased or satisfied with pain relief and appearance following the procedure, with 14 stating that they would undergo the procedure again given the same circumstance and 5 patients that would not. The complications included 8 patients requiring screw removal, 2 patients with metatarsalgia, one patient undergoing multiple further corrective procedures and one requiring a second ray amputation for osteomyelitis.

Sixteen patients (23 feet) were available for repeat radiographic assessment. This revealed that there had been some recurrence of the deformity with the initial correction of the HV angle being a mean of 40° (range 36–51°) to 15° (9–23°) at up to one year and 23° (0–52°) at ten years. Similarly with the mean IM angle initially corrected from 18° (15–25°) to 8.5°(6–12°), being 14° (7–20°) at ten years.

In conclusion, despite some recurrence of the deformity on x-ray the subjective satisfaction with this procedure is good. Care should be taken in patient selection but the Mann 3 in 1 appears to be a good procedure for the correction of severe Hallux Valgus.