Abstract
Background: The bunionette is a lateral prominence of the fifth metatarsal head. It is usually caused by a wide intermetatarsal angle (IMA) between the 4th and 5th metatarsals with associated varus of the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint. Increased pressure placed on the head of the 5th metatarsal results in pain and plantar callus formation. Failure of conservative treatment warrants bony corrective surgery. Various distal, shaft and basal osteotomies have been described in the literature.
Methods: We have used a ‘reverse’ scarf osteotomy in 12 cases (10F: 2M) with a mean follow-up of 12 months (range 5–22 months). All patients filled up a Foot Function Index (FFI) questionnaire pre-operatively and a repeat questionnaire at the latest follow-up. All angles were measured on a weight bearing AP radiograph of the foot. Post-operatively we mobilised the patients immediately using a heel bearing shoe. All osteotomies healed sufficiently at 6 weeks to allow unprotected weight bearing. Full weight bearing was allowed after clinical and radiological union was achieved.
Results: Pre-op mean IMA was 13.1 degrees (range: 10.4–18 degrees) and mean 5th MTP angle was 19.9 degrees (range 12.7–25.5 degrees). Pre-op mean FFI was 34.2 (range 14–71.3). Post operatively, mean IMA was 7.27 degrees (range: 2.0–11.5 degrees); mean 5th MTP angle was 6.36 degrees (range: 2.8–9.0 degrees) and post-operative mean FFI was 5 (range 0–16.7). All except one patient were pleased with the cosmetic correction obtained. One patient did not like the scar but her foot was asymptomatic and her FFI improved from 27 to 0. All patients would undergo the same procedure on the other foot if required and would recommend the same to a friend.
Conclusion: ‘Reverse’ Scarf osteotomy in the correction of bunionette deformity offers promising results in the short term. Further longterm follow-up would help to establish the benefits of this procedure.
The abstracts were prepared by Mr Matt Costa and Mr Ben Ollivere. Correspondence should be addressed to Mr Costa at Clinical Sciences Research Institute, University of Warwick, Clifford Bridge Road, Coventry CV2 2DX, UK.
