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A Retrospective Study on Wilson Osteotomy with Intramedullary Locking Plate for Failed Hallux Valgus Correction: Insights from a Single-Surgeon Experience

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Background/Objective: The recurrence of hallux valgus (HV) after primary surgical correction remains a clinical challenge, often requiring combined approaches to address both bony realignment and soft tissue imbalance. While locking plates have shown some biomechanical advantages in HV correction, evidence regarding their application in revision procedures is limited. This study presents a retrospective single-surgeon experience with a small cohort, aiming to describe radiographic and functional outcomes and to share practical insights rather than provide definitive conclusions. Methods: In this retrospective case series, patients undergoing revision surgery for failed HV correction over the past ten years at a single tertiary institution were analyzed. Radiographic parameters—hallux valgus angle (HVA), intermetatarsal angle (IMA), distal metatarsal articular angle (DMAA), and sesamoid position—were assessed. Functional outcomes included the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) score and the Visual Analog Scale for pain. Surgical strategies were tailored according to recurrence mechanisms, and some cases involved Wilson osteotomy with intramedullary plate fixation. The Mann–Whitney U test and the Wilcoxon signed-rank test were applied to assess efficacy. Results: A total of 11 feet treated by one surgeon were included. Both soft tissue procedures and combined osteotomy with intramedullary plate fixation led to statistically significant but preliminary improvements in HVA, IMA, DMAA, and sesamoid alignment. Functional scores improved, and the complication rate was within the range reported in the previous literature. Conclusions: This retrospective single-surgeon study with a limited sample size suggests that Wilson osteotomy combined with intramedullary plate fixation may represent a joint-preserving and biomechanically supportive option for recurrent HV, particularly in cases with large DMAAs and severe sesamoid displacement. However, the findings should be interpreted cautiously given the small cohort, retrospective design, and absence of multi-angle radiographic visualization. The results highlight a potential approach in specific clinical settings rather than a definitive solution. Larger, prospective, multi-center studies are required to confirm long-term utility.

Source: Life

DOI: 10.3390/life15101592

Authors: Yi Ping Wei, Meng Chen Kuo, Yi Jiun Chou

Institutions: National Sun Yat-sen University, Tajen University, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital

Language: English

Topic: Foot and Ankle Surgery

Subfield: Orthopedics and Sports Medicine

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,137