Five-Year Follow-up of Minimally Invasive Distal Metatarsal Chevron Osteotomy in Comparison with the Open Technique: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

BACKGROUND: The aim of the present prospective randomized study was to evaluate the long-term outcomes of minimally invasive chevron osteotomy as compared with open distal chevron osteotomy for the correction of hallux valgus deformity. METHODS: A randomized controlled design was applied. The following parameters were assessed at 6 and 12 weeks, 9 months, and 5 years postoperatively: the American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) Forefoot Score, a visual analog scale (VAS) score for pain, and a patient-satisfaction score. In addition, several radiographic parameters for hallux valgus correction and joint degeneration were collected. Range of motion was also assessed. Thirty-nine of 47 feet were available for analysis at the time of the latest follow-up. RESULTS: During the 5-year study period, the outcomes of the minimally invasive technique were comparable with those of the open technique. No significant differences were seen between the 2 groups within 5 years postoperatively in terms of clinical outcomes (VAS, AOFAS, satisfaction), radiographic outcomes, joint degeneration, or range of motion. CONCLUSIONS: Five years after treatment, the outcome following minimally invasive distal chevron osteotomy is comparable with that for the open technique for hallux valgus surgery. LEVELS OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic Level I. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.