MITCHELLS OSTEOTOMY IN THE TREATMENT OF H ALLUX-VALGUS

Ninety-one (91) Mitchell osteotomies on 63 patients (60 females and 3 males) were reviewed. The average follow-up was 40 months (min. 12, ma x. 70). The average age at the time of the surgery was 51 years (min. 20, max. 74). The presence of a apinful bunion justified the surgery i n a majority of cases (92 %). The clinical evaluation was done by an i ndependent observer. Weight bearing X-rays of the feet were made in ea ch case. The results show a satisfactory improvement of the pain in 92 % of the cases. The patients were satisfied with the appearance of th eir foot int 93 % of the cases. The average active articular range of motion was 47 degrees (min. 20 degrees, max. 120 degrees). The Das De scale showed 75 % of excellent and good results. Twelve per cent (12 % ) of the patients presented residual metarsalgia. We observed minor co mplications in 10 cases (11 %). We report no cases of avascular necros is, pseudarthrosis or infection. Clinico-radiological correlations wer e made. We obtained an average correction of 13 degrees (min. -5 degre es, max. 28 degrees) of the hallux valgus and 3.5 degrees (min. -7 deg rees, max. 7 degrees) of the intermetatarsal angle. We recommend the M itchell osteotomy as long as the indication criterias and the surgical technique are respected.