The surgical anatomy of the dorsomedial cutaneous nerve of the hallux

Most techniques described for the correction of hallux valgus require expos ure of the distal aspect of the first metatarsal, A dorsomedial incision is often recommended. Texts counsel against damaging the dorsal digital nerve , as a painful neuroma is an unwelcome surgical complication. Our study on cadavers aimed to investigate the anatomy of the dorsomedial c utaneous nerve in the metatarsophalangeal region, with special reference to surgical incisions. A constant, previously unrecognised branch of the nerv e was identified. This branch is likely to be damaged if a dorsomedial appr oach is used. It is recommended that a mid-medial incision be used instead, i.e. at the junction of the plantar and dorsal skin.